Dog lovers across Bedford are being asked to help the charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, by looking after puppies who will go on to become hearing dogs to help more people with hearing loss.
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is now in its 40th year and demand for their service has recently increased by 30%.
Due to this increase, people in Bedford are now being asked to help raise and train young Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, Cockapoos and Miniature Poodles to become life-changing hearing dogs for deaf people.
When they’ve completed the training, these clever canines will alert deaf people to important and life-saving sounds such as the doorbell, alarm clock, smoke alarm and even baby monitor.
They also provide constant emotional support and companionship, helping deaf people to leave loneliness behind and reconnect with life.
Jason and Donna Parke, from Bedford, have volunteered with the charity and say it “changed their life”, although it can be challenging.
“Being a Volunteer Puppy Trainer is the most rewarding and emotional thing we have ever done as a family,” they said.
“It can be challenging at times but the sense of pride you have when the puppy leaves to ‘go to work’ is a feeling you just cannot put into words.
“There are a few tears cried but knowing the dog you have helped train will change someone’s life makes it all worthwhile.
“It has helped our children understand the importance of helping others. As well as changing someone else’s life, it has changed our life.
“We love getting out in the fresh air and have made lots of new friends – volunteering for the Charity feels like you are part of a family.”
Full training and support
Anyone who volunteers to raise a puppy will have full guidance and support from a local instructor.
All expenses related to the puppy’s training, including food, insurance, and veterinary bills will also be covered by the charity.
In return, you’ll help slowly introduce their puppy to new experiences and environments like supermarkets, restaurants, shops, and public transport.
This will help them gain the confidence to help a deaf person everywhere they go as an accredited assistance dog.
There will also be weekly classes so the puppies can learn the skills needed to become well-behaved dogs before they learn how to alert deaf people to sounds.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to experience the joys of having a dog, without all the associated financial commitments, while making a real difference to deaf people’s lives,” said Victoria Leedham, Head of Volunteering at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.
“You’ll meet like-minded people, make new friends and receive lots of support from us every step of the way.
“If you think you can offer one of our adorable puppies a loving home, we’d love to hear from you.”
The role would be perfect for dog lovers in Bedfords living in a home with a secure garden, and plenty of time to spare every day.
You will need access to a computer and video calling facilities for online dog training classes.
Unfortunately, the Charity cannot consider applications from those who work full-time, even if they work from home.
The charity also encourages those who have had to reconsider getting a pet due to the cost of living crisis to think about looking after one of its puppies.
Anyone interested in finding out more or wishing to apply can visit hearingdogs.org.uk/volunteer, and you can find out more by emailing volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk or calling 01844 348129.
