Skip to main content

Happy Tails recently received funding from the Arizona Community Foundation for the purpose of starting a new Hearing Dog Program. Our first Hearing Dog class kicked off September 7, 2006

 

 

Hearing Dogs can assist Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals by alerting them to sounds such as:

Picture of a Hearing Dog

 

  • Smoke Alarm

  • Knock or Doorbell

  • Alarm Clock

  • Phone/TTY

  • Persons name being called

  • Kitchen Timer

    •  

    Hearing Dogs help people live more independently and are loving, dependable companions.

    Student Requirements for Hearing Class

    1. Arizona Resident

    2. Have a severe hearing loss (40 decibels or above in the better ear), deafness, or a degenerative hearing loss

    3. Be willing to commit to 2 hours a week of classroom training as well as home training for a period of 18 to 24 months

    4. Be able to provide essential care of a dog

    Hearing Dog Requirements

    1. At least 18 months old

    2. Proof of being Spayed/Neutered

    3. Licensed

    4. Current immunizations

     

    Will my Dog make a Good Hearing Dog?

    Dogs that are great pets don’t necessarily make good hearing dogs. There is no best breed or size for a hearing dog. The best hearing dogs display the following temperament and behavior characteristics:

    Interested in sounds (curious)

    No fear of thunderstorms or loud noises (fire alarms)

    Eager to please

    Alert

    Easily stimulated and intense

    No fear of or aggression toward any people or other animals

    Confident in unfamiliar places or new situations