Petting a deaf dog
I could have never believed that deaf dogs could be as graceful as their normal counterparts had I not visited my friend’s place. The bond between my friend and his buddy left me absolutely speechless. Words simply can’t describe the beauty of their relationship which has evolved over the years.
In spite of his pet being deaf my friend has taken very bit of care to ensure that he doesn’t feel lonely or left out. During the course of our conversation he discussed with me several important details that I would like to share with my readers.
Deafness can actually stem from several factors like trauma, accident, exposure to loud noise and old age. Some dogs turn deaf after adoption while some people deliberately adopt a deaf pet just for the love of it. My friend told me that deaf dogs are quite adjustable and they are in fact more sensitive to the changes around them than their normal counterparts.
What are the things you should keep in mind if you have a deaf pet or if you’re contemplating adoption?
1. Protect him from aggressive animals and other dangers. Always keep your dog on leash when you take him out for a stroll.
2. You can train him just the way you train a normal dog except for voice commands. With them you have to use hand signals as frequently as possible. However, your signals should be consistent or else it may confuse him.
3. A deaf dog might get frightened at the slightest drop of a hat. You can actually divert his attention by caressing and patting him on the back. In case he’s woken up from a deep slumber put him to rest again by running your fingers through his fur. Do these exercises from time to time throughout his life. He’ll gradually learn that unknown things are nothing to get frightened about.
4. As he can’t hear he’ll not be aware of your sudden disappearance. So, if you have to leave the area let him know by patting his back. Or if you’re outside wave your hand vigorously in his direction so that he understands you’re leaving the place.
5. Put a tag around his collar stating that he’s deaf along with all the contact details.
Happy petting!
Tags: deaf dog, looking after deaf pet
October 26th, 2009 at 7:14 am
I have a 14yr. old Maltese/Pekapoo who is deaf. We too had built up a rapport which can be astouding at times. If we are outside, I signal him when it’s time to go back in by stretching my arm out and bringing it toward my chest several times. He caught on fast that this meant I was going in and wanted him to come too. He used to go outside in the backyard by himself but now that he is deaf he wants me out there with him; I almost always accommodate him. I never want him to feel lonely. Thank you for this article because many older dogs become deaf and it is necessary to act differently with them.
October 27th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
I am really glad that you liked my article and it was indeed great to know about the wonderful rapport you have with your pooch. I feel relieved when I come to know about people like you who actually treat their pets just like their own babies. By the way I stumbled upon Luv All Creatures. Is that your site Marge? I went through some of the stuff. They are amazing. I also liked the jet black Maltese you are holding in the picture.
November 8th, 2009 at 2:33 am
Yes, I just started Luv All Creatures in September. We are an all service pet company. Mainly pet sitting & dog walking; but I also have groomers & a pet photographer & pooper scooper. The dog in my arms is Charlie, the dog i was telling you about. He’s both deaf & can only see distance, not close up. He has difficulty walking because of disintegrating discs in his back. But as long as he gets his pain meds every day he makes the attempt. Watch someone walk by my fence & he’s off and running after them–just like old times. He is truly the best dog I’ve ever had; intelligent as they come. And, don’t tell me animals don’t communicate. We have a Chihuahua staying w/ us right now & he’s figured that I’ll do anything for Charlie. If he wants to go out, he goes over to Charlie, they touch noses & next thing you know Charlie is next to me, asking to go out!! It’s amazing to watch. We really can learn so much from watching our animals & learning to pick up on their cues to us. You have to love them!
November 8th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
You are so correct Marge. These pets are really amazing. We indeed have a lot to learn from them. And I must say that you guys are doing a great job. Kudos to you. Keep up the good work.