intouch - hearing dogs for deaf peopleintouch news for hearing dog recipients and volunteers winter...

inTouchNews for hearing dog recipients and volunteers Winter issue 2016

• Seasons greetings from all at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People •

IN THIS ISSUEIn the spotlight - our stars of 2016 2Christmas treat top tips 4Meet our Display Team 8News 12Partnership community days 14‘Sound support’ dogs 17Tributes 18

In Touch Winter 2016_Layout 1 24/11/2016 17:48

The annual Hearing Dogs Awards isthe highlight of the Charity’scalendar. The event celebrates theincredible partnerships between deafpeople and their hearing dogs as wellas the vital role of our volunteers andfundraising supporters. Our thanksto award sponsors Specsavers andRoyal Canin, to our hosts TonyJardine and Amy Williams MBE andto all the partnerships, volunteersand celebrities who helped to make itsuch a special evening. Here are our winners…

Community Champion Award 2016 presented to AlanLawrenson by World Champion Gymnast, Beth Tweddle MBE

Alan Lawrenson, 29, from South Shields has raised £10,000by running more than 812 miles, including 159 miles acrossthe Sahara Desert and a further 100 miles ‘Deaf for the Day’ – special gel moulds were inserted into his ears by aSpecsavers Audiologist making him 70% deaf for 40 hours.Alan says: "Running a marathon 'Deaf for the Day' waswithout a doubt the toughest race I’ve completed.”

The Open Doors Award 2016 presented to Premier Inn byMarc Abraham aka Marc the Vet

Premier Inn is this year’s winner of the Hearing Dogs’ OpenDoors Award. Nominating the hotel chain for its outstandingaccessibility and the warm, practical welcome it offers deafpeople and their hearing dogs, Ian Finney says: “Premier Innhas obviously thought about its equalities policy; you can go inwith no stress whatsoever, knowing that the team membersare properly informed and that you and your hearing dog willbe welcomed. It makes such a difference.”

In the spotlight - our stars of 2016

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L-R Jean Todd, Hannah Baker with Ayla, Sophie Biebuyck with Rusty,Janis Gillespie from Premier Inn, Kaitlyn Soden with Rowan, SamanthaFensom from Premier Inn, Alan Lawrenson

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Send your comments [email protected] or write to Gill Lacey, inTouch, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Wycombe Road, Saunderton,

Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire

HP27 9NS

Heads upWelcome to your copyof inTouch.

Certificates fornomineesThank you for all yournominations for thisyear’s awards.Everyone who wasnominated will besent a specialcertificate and their stories are alreadyhelping us raise awareness of Hearing Dogs far andwide. Watch out for more about our winners in thespring issue of Favour.

Dear Santa Paws…With Christmas Day fast approaching and far toomuch choice on the high street, read our top tips onchoosing the best affordable Christmas treats foryour dog on pages 4–7 – before you go shopping!

Meet our fabulous display team!Turn to page 8 to meet the dedicated people anddogs who travel far and wide to demonstrate thework of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

Join our Project Advisory Panel...We’re about to take part in an exciting new researchproject led by York University and are looking forvolunteers to join our Project Advisory Panel. Maybeyou’d like to get involved? Find out more on page 13.

Partnership community daysIf you haven’t yet been along to one of our partnershipcommunity days and would like to find out a bit moreabout them first, please turn to page 14.

The next issue of inTouch will be published in June2017. Merry Christmas everyone.

Gill Gill Lacey, Editor

inTouch is accessible in BSL via the links at www.hearingdogs.org.uk/in-touch

Young Partners Award 2016 presented to Kaitlyn Soden (12) andRowan by radio presenter Pandora Christie from Kiss FM

Kaitlyn and Rowan have a unique and extraordinary partnership.Kaitlyn’s father, Phil Soden, says: “Kaitlyn used to be too scared toeven stroke a dog and too nervous to speak to anyone outside herfamily.” Kaitlyn, who has auditory neuropathy, which means she hasan issue with processing sounds says: “Rowan helps me be brave andhappy, and makes me not scared of anything – except flies! Rowan ismy best friend. As long as we know each other, we’ll never break eachother’s hearts.”

Specsavers Lifeline Award 2016 presented to Hannah Baker and Ayla by celebritydoctor, Dr Sarah Jarvis

Hannah had struggled for many yearswith mental health problems as well asdeafness. This had driven Hannah totry to take her own life on more thanone occasion. She says: “Ayla hasbeen a lifeline. I knew that she wasgoing to change my life, but even tothis day I underestimated howmuch. She’s pulled me back, mademe visible and I don’t feel like I’mdrowning at sea anymore.”

Royal Canin Life-changing Partnership Award 2016presented to Sophie Biebuyck and Rusty by TV presenter Tim Vincent

Thirty-year-old Sophie, a talented musician and opera singer, was onthe brink of her professional career when her hearing tragicallydeteriorated. No longer able to hear and understand music, she lost herjob, her musical friends, her dreams and her independence all at once.She says: “Having Rusty has changed my life in so many ways I wouldstruggle to list them. I feel secure and safe in the knowledge that he willlet me know what’s going on. He is so alert to everything and his joy iscontagious. He has given me that real fulfilment in life again.”

The Desmond Wilcox Volunteer of the Year Award 2016 wasawarded to Jean Todd and her late husband Phil. It was presented toJean by Jayne Torvill OBE

As puppy socialisers and registered speakersJean and Phil looked after young dogs as wellas taking on countless public speaking rolesacross the local area and beyond. The loss ofPhil, who passed away following a long battlewith Parkinson’s in May this year, was feltacross the entire organisation and even moreso within the volunteering ‘family’.Courageously Jean has continued to supportthe charity and is a true inspiration. She says:"This award means so much to me. Inparticular, that Phil has been recognised bythe Charity in this way. They have given meso much support since he passed away.

They truly are a lovely charity. To the end of Phil’s life, the wonderfulmemories of Hearing Dogs stayed with him.”

Watch our winners’ films at: www.hearingdogs.org.uk/awardsAnd read their stories in the spring issue of Favour magazine.

As puppy socialisers and registered speakersJean and Phil looked after young dogs as wellas taking on countless public speaking rolesacross the local area and beyond. The loss ofPhil, who passed away following a long battlewith Parkinson’s in May this year, was feltacross the entire organisation and even moreso within the volunteering ‘family’.Courageously Jean has continued to supportthe charity and is a true inspiration. She says:"This award means so much to me. Inparticular, that Phil has been recognised bythe Charity in this way. They have given meso much support since he passed away.

They truly are a lovely charity. To the end of Phil’s life, the wonderful

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certificate and their stories are alreadyhelping us raise awareness of Hearing Dogs far and

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Gill Lacey – Editor


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What’s on your dog’sChristmas list this year?The shops are currently full of wondrousgifts for our four-legged friends. The choice is endless and there’s a lot ofpressure to buy your dog somethingspecial to show how much you care. If your dog could write his own letter toSanta, I wonder what he would askfor… maybe a simple toy, or sometasty treats? Or would it besomething that money can’t buy like along walk with his best friend? Onlyyou know the answer to that question!Besides, we all know that the realreason for wrapping up a gift for ourdogs is because we love them and itmakes us feel good!

So for those of you who can’t resist thetemptation of a doggy Christmas gift hereare our top tips on making safe, wisechoices that will make you and your bestfriend happy...

Top tipsChristmas treats


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ADVENT CALENDARSWho doesn’t love an edible advent calendar! Thereare many varieties out there from high end pricey onesto the cheap and cheerful. Check that yours has aclear and informative list of ingredients. If the list ofingredients is vague – using generalised terms suchas: ‘minerals’, ‘derivatives of vegetable origin’, ‘oils andfats’, ‘sugars’ – then you won’t have enoughinformation to know if it’s a safe product for your dog.NB. Only choose thosespecificallymanufactured for dogs.

We recommend theLily’s Kitchen AdventCalendar for Dogs£9.95 available fromTesco and Waitrose.This has a detailedlist of ingredients,most of which havebeen organicallysourced.

Better still, why not make your own bytying small treats in little numbered paper bags andhanging them at the top of your tree – or anywhere outof reach! Giving your dog a small daily treat from thelittle bag or from behind the advent calendar window isa lot of fun. You can increase the value of the treat toyour dog if you give it to him as a reward for doingsomething first. It can be something as simple asasking him to “Sit!”, but if he thinks he has earned itthen that little treat instantly becomes extra special.

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGSWith a pre-stuffed Doggie Stocking you don’t alwaysknow exactly what’s in it – and, while they certainlylook the part, be warned that they can work out rathermore expensive than if you’d bought the contentsseparately!

We recommend theWainwrights Dog Stocking£9.00 from Pets at Home

Better still, the safest andmost special way to giveyour dog a Christmasstocking is to create your own.

You can pack it full of your dog’s favourites; choosinghealthy, tasty and nutritious treats that should last himweeks and even months into the New Year – alsosaving you money.

BAGS OF TREATSThere are many brands on the market and some arehealthier than others. Treats should be chosencarefully and only given when factored in as part ofyour dog’s daily food allowance. Many treats, biscuitsand chews are high in calories and low in nutrition. AMisfits Wonky Chomp for example contains a massive255 calories! An 85g bag of carrot sticks on the otherhand is just 35 calories in total so makes a healthy,nutritious and crunchy low-calorie alternative.

We recommend Fish4Dogs whose products are allnutritious, sustainably sourced, wheat-free and haveno colourings or artificial preservatives. Top treatsinclude Sea Jerky made from 100% Ocean White FishSkins that contain no Salmon or other ingredients.Other favourites are Salmon Strips treats made fromNorwegian farmed Salmon that is guaranteed freefrom antibiotics and growth-promoting hormones (bothof which are banned in Norway).why not make your own by

and chews are high in calories and low in nutrition. A

We recommendWainwrights Dog Stocking£9.00 from Pets at Home

Better stillmost special way to giveyour dog a Christmasstocking is to create your own.

FISH4DOGS SPECIAL OFFER

Order online and enter the code HELLO20T for a

20% discount off the whole Fish4Dogsrange, including their

Sea Jerky Treats


CHRISTMAS TOYS AND GAMESAs we all know, Christmas should be more about love,family and fun than food! So why not give your dog asafe and fun dog toy instead of a Christmas foody treatthis year? Playing hunt, tug or hide-and-seek gameshelps build relationships, provides time out for your dogand exercise for his mind and body. Choose a ‘dogsafe’ toy from a pet shop and of course make surethere’s no squeak!

BONESNever give your dog the roast bone from yourChristmas dinner. Any roast bone can splinter and stickin the gums, throat or digestive tract causing potentiallife-threatening internal injuries that need urgentveterinary treatment. Raw bones can cause blockagesand harbour nasties such as trichinosis so should alsobe avoided. Instead choose a smoked bone and yourdog will have a good natural teeth-cleaning chewwithout any danger of splinters.

We recommend the T Forrest and Sons smokedshank bone £1.75 from The Bark Ark. It’s a 100%natural product and great value.

Barkshire –Christmas Blanket &Moose Dog Toy £4.99

Pets at Home – Christmas Throw MeSanta Dog Toy £6.00

We recommend

Wilko – Pig Treat Ball£3.00

CHOCOLATE SANTASWho can resist the charms of a chocolate Santa?!But take care when choosing a ‘chocolate’ treat foryour dog. Make sure it is one that’s been speciallymade for dogs. Carob is a safe alternative tochocolate and is rich in vitamins A, B, B1, B2, B3,B6, D & E, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium,manganese and protein and also rich in fibre andpectin, which helps eliminate toxins fromthe body. It has been said to aiddigestion, lower cholesterol, andcan be used to treat diarrhoea. It can even allow betterabsorption of calcium sohelping promote healthy teethand bones. Unlike chocolate it does not containtheobromine, caffeine,phenylethylamine orformamide, which are the maincauses of toxicity to dogs.

We recommend Bonnie Dogs for their Carob SantaChristmas Dog Treat £3.99.

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WRAPPINGFinally, take care when wrapping up your dog’sgift. Ribbons, tinsel, Sellotape and other thingsnormally used to wrap presents can be quiteharmful to dogs and other pets if they chew andswallow them. A simple cardboard box or a plaingift bag with no added extras is ideal, and whatcould be sweeter than watching your dog peeringinto it, snuffling inside with his nose andreappearing with his prized gift.

DON’T BUYRAWHIDE GIFTSRawhide comes in all shapes and sizes. Only choose arawhide Christmas gift if your dog loves rawhide and hasnever had any digestive issues from eating it before.Make sure you know where it’s from and how it has beenmade – watch out for hidden dangers such aspreservative toxins and chemical colourings, as well asthe allergenic issue of which animal the hide came from.

Size is important. If you intend to use the rawhide gift tosettle your dog quietly during the Christmas festivities orfor teeth cleaning, try to give your dog one that is notsmall enough to be swallowed whole, or munched up too quickly.

Handle with care as a chewed rawhide can harbourbacteria such as E. coli or salmonella. If your dog chewsthe treat, leaves it to dry and then goes back to it hours oreven days later, it may have grown all sorts of bacteriafrom their mouth and the environment. So when they’vefinished chewing, take it away and bin it.

We recommend you never leave your dog alone with arawhide chew to ensure any bits swallowed don’t cause achoking hazard. But ideally choose an alternative gift!

Plastic toys* – they can break easilyleaving sharp edges and bits that your dogcould swallow.

Battery-operated toys – they might be funbut if your dog swallowed a battery it couldbe fatal if not treated as a veterinaryemergency.

Interactive laser toys – if shone into yourdog’s eyes – even by accident – the laserlight can cause pain, discomfort andpermanent damage.

* Toys sold in our catalogue made by specialistmanufacturers, such as Ancol, Beaphar and The Company of Animals, are guaranteed safe for pets.

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Meet the Hearing Dogs Display Teamwho demonstrate the work of the Charity at important meetings andevents all over the UK

Who’s who and what they do • Who’s who and what they do • Who’s who and what they do • W

Janine Hovey, Dog Trainer, and her Cocker Spaniel Rose

Joining the demo team was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It allowed me tohave Rose, who is an amazing dog. Working so closely with her has helped me toreally understand the great work our charity does. We demonstrate to theThursday tour and to corporate visitors. I also take Rose along to off-site displaysbut just to get her used to the atmosphere at the moment. Favourite event? We really enjoyed meeting all the lovely volunteers at arecent branch event in Southampton.Funny moments Rose knows how to turn up the cute-factor. She often letsout a random howl or loud yawn to get a reaction from the audience – shejust enjoys making them laugh! Outside work we do agility and gundog training. And after a lovely long walk there’s nothing better than cuddling up with Rosewatching TV.Favourite doggy holiday I recently took Rose to Bournemouth.It was lovely to see how much she enjoyed the beach – spinningin circles, digging and throwing sand in the air – as well asswimming in the sea! My proudest achievement was gettingmy job at Hearing Dogs, closely followedby having Rose as my demo dog.

Caroline Ayres, Dog Trainer, and her chocolate Labrador Robyn

Being in the demo team gave Robyn and I something to do together. It has definitely helpedme increase my training skills. Robyn became the first dog I trained to do soundwork andthat gave me the confidence to make the step from the dog welfare team into training. My favourite event is Crufts as the whole team gets involved and there’s always a greatatmosphere. I’ll never forget when the team got locked in at a showground campsite. One brave personclimbed over the pedestrian gate, while the rest of us – along with our dogs – begged a lift tothe vehicle exit in someone’s car. It was all very comical! Outside work we like walking in Cassiobury Park, Watford. It’s always full of dog walkersand there’s plenty of space to run or potter and splash in the river! My favourite doggy holiday? This year we visited the Isle of Wight, which was fantasticand very dog friendly. We also love the Lake District.

Sally Taylor, Senior Dog Trainer, and her golden Labrador Mango

I got involved with the Hearing Dogs demo team as a helper at first – looking after the props,staging the arena, setting off the sounds, acting in the demo story and holding dogs asrequired. Then this year I acquired my first demo dog, Mango, so I’m now very much centrestage rather than supporting cast or behind the scenes! My favourite events are the CLA Game Fair and Pup Aid. Outside work I love finding different walks to do with Mango and teaching her new tricks. My favourite doggy holiday is on the Norfolk Broads and I’m taking Mango there for thefirst time next year. It’s a very peaceful place and I love to be on the water - I just hopeMango will stay aboard and not jump in for a swim! I’m like my dog because we’re both good at sleeping in at the weekends and we alsoenjoy the water. Fun fact about me – I studied primates in Uganda seven years ago. We would spend allday tracking and observing gorillas! I would love to do it again.

Who’s who and what they do • Who’s who and what they do • Who’s who and what they do • W

WE’RE BASED AT THE GRANGE


Jay Elcock, Dog Training Team Leader and Display Team Co-ordinator, and her Cocker Spaniel Brock

As well as giving small demos with Brock I’m thecommentator at most of our national events –I’m naturally quite outgoing so it suits mypersonality perfectly! I work with Angie toco-ordinate the demo diary and rota.My favourite events are Crufts, anddoing a demo for Deborah Meadenfrom Dragons’ Den – she’s my role model.I’ll never forget trying to do adisplay in a rainstorm! Thespectators were sheltered but wewere soaked through and the windkept blowing the equipment over!Honestly it was like being in a Carry On film! Outside work we love long countrywalks with a pub stop for lunch. We do‘gundog’ style training with dummies,trick training and natural agility overfallen logs.My favourite doggy holiday is theLake District for its stunning sceneryand beautiful walks. Cumbria alsohas great dog-friendly beaches.Fun fact about me – I’m aqualified advanced SCUBA diver.

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Claire Bott, Dog Trainer, and her black Labrador Buffy

My favourite demo is the one we do every year forGABIT (short for “Get Amanda Back In Town”). It’s a lovely fundraising event, organised by fans of theUK-born Stargate actress, Amanda Tapping. They’vebeen supporting Hearing Dogs since 2005. This year’sevent raised nearly £14,000, achieving an incredibletotal of more than £100,000 over 11 years.Funny dog Buffy loves children so much that I willoften choose a child from the audience to help in ademo. Unfortunately, when the alarm clock rings sheis far too busy giving them kisses and cuddles to letthem out of bed! VIP pawshakes include our Royal Patron HRH ThePrincess Royal, Eastenders actress Pam St. Clement,Stargate actress Amanda Tapping and singer Jo O’Meara from S Club 7.Outside work Buffy and I enjoy long walks andplaying games with her toys!My favourite doggy holiday is the Lake District;what’s not to love about long walks and swimming inthe lakes?

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do • Who’s who and what they do • Who’s who and what they do • Who’s who and what they do


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Claire Mcknespiey, Dog Trainer, and herCavalier King Charles Spaniel Scout

Soon after I started work at The Grangein 2007 I decided to join the HearingDogs demo team. I love talking to thepublic about what we do and having myown demo dog to show off with makesme feel very proud! Favourite event? Discover Dogs,because it’s like Crufts only smaller and has fun competitions like‘temptation alley’! I’ll never forget the time Scoutsuddenly left the arena at high speed inthe middle of a demo at the RoyalNorfolk Show, because he had spotted apond full of ducks!VIP pawshakes include TV personalityand singer Sinitta, F1 racing driver MarkWebber, actress Pam St. Clement andTV presenter Rachel Riley. Scout hasalso appeared on the One Show and theAlan Titchmarsh Show.Outside work we do fun agility, scenttracking and trick training.My favourite doggy holiday? Scoutand I love going to Cornwall. Proudest moment? When Scout wascrowned Britain’s Next Dog Model 2011.

Katherine Clarkson, PartnershipDevelopment Manager, and her blackLabrador Bruce

I wanted to do more for the Charity. Joining the demo team seemed a greatway to do that and also to build myconfidence and skills in public speaking.When I rehomed Bruce in 2009 I trainedhim as my demo dog. I’ll never forget Newmarket Racecoursewhere we completed two demos intorrential rain. By early afternoon ourclothes were so wet and muddy that wehad to buy new ones to travel home in!Best VIP moment? When Bruce had aselfie with John Barrowman! Outside work Bruce enjoys a quieterpace of life.Favourite doggy holiday is the northDevon or north Somerset coast. Bruceabsolutely loves the beach, chasing a ballin the waves, and coastal walks. Theselocations are special to me as they weremy childhood holiday destinations.I’m like my dog because we’re bothrather sensitive souls.Most proud of? I recently achieved fullmembership of the Association of PetBehaviour Counsellors (APBC).

Jo Otton, Dog Trainer, and her Collie cross Goldie

Being in the display team is hard work, butgreat fun – we always have a laugh andthere is great camaraderie. Favourite event? Devon County Show. I’ll never forget when a kind strangeroffered us all a lift across a rather largeshowground in her tiny Vauxhall Corsa.Four of us filled the passenger seats, threedogs sat side-by-side in the boot and onevery nonchalant dog rested across our laps! Outside work Goldie and I enjoy a nicewalk and a pub lunch. We have found agreat place for an ice cream in Witneywhere they also offer a doggy bowl with theoption of gravy bones or chocolate drops –Goldie’s been twice so far.I’m like my dog because I have a lazy lefteye and Goldie has no left eye at all. Wecome across as being confident but havequite a sensitive side.Thank you Goldie! Goldie retires this yearafter nine years of service to the Charity.We’ve stayed in tents, hotels, sat in thesunshine, shown off the work of the Charityand had an amazing time together. She’staught me so much.

Heather Ahearn, a trainee dog trainerat The Grange, who is one of ourdisplay team commentators.

And Lauren Thomas, an applicationsand partnership advisor, who will beworking with our lovely demo dog Pepeto demonstrate our work to Thursdaytour visitors at The Grange. Outsidework Pepe lives with volunteers, Nevand Nat. Lauren says: “I’m like mydemo dog because we can both be alittle over-excitable at times!”

Heather Ahearn Lauren Thomas and Pepe

Welcome to the newest members of our display team...


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WE’RE BASED AT THE BEATRICE WRIGHT CENTRE

Angie Platten Head, of Partnership Services, and her Labrador cross Retriever Dexter

I mostly do the commentary for the Display Team and occasionally work with Dexter, who is onlyallowed to do demos at food-free venues! I also co-ordinate the Beatrice Wright Centre DisplayTeam and oversee national activities alongside Jay, who is co-ordinator for the team based atThe Grange. My favourite demo was for a Rotary cruise on a ferry docked in Hull – a very unusual venue!I’ll never forget commentating for our demo at Crufts alongside Pam St. Clement. It was one of my most nerve-wracking and thrilling experiences. Most challenging venue Game fairs! There are gunshots, geese, hundreds of other dogs,even thunder and lighting, and yet our fabulous demo dogs still do their stuff – wonderful! Outside work Dexter and I attempt agility but aren’t much good at it! Dexter is a gentle giant, he barely completes the course in the allotted time, but he’s always clear!Favourite doggy holiday? Goathland in North Yorkshire where they filmed Heartbeat – for itsbeautiful walks, waterfalls and great people.

Nicci Cross, Interim Training Team Leader, and her Cocker Spaniel Beau

My first demo dog Bruno sadly passed away in September. Beau, my other dog, was borndeaf. I’ve been training her as a demo dog using hand signal cues for soundwork. She is like adeaf role model helping to show people that anything is possible with the right kind of support. My favourite event is either the CLA Game Fair or Crufts I’ll never forget the media interest following news of Beau’s deafness and how she is still ableto help the Hearing Dogs charity. VIP pawshakes Marc the Vet and Victoria Stillwell. Outside work we love the beach and exploring new places.My favourite doggy holiday destination is the Dorset coast and Devon.Fun fact about me – I have a 1st class BSc (hons) degree in Animal Training and Behaviour,and was one of thousands of volunteers painted blue and photographed by renownedphotographer Spencer Tunick to mark Hull as City of Culture 2017.

Helen Dews, Dog Trainer, and her black Labrador Peppa

I joined the Hearing Dogs demo team with Peppa five years ago. From when I got Peppa ateight weeks old I began training her with the demo team in mind.My favourite event is the CLA Game Fair at Harewood House in Leeds. It’s such a greatweekend involving staff from both our training centres – The Grange and the Beatrice WrightCentre – so there’s a real feeling of it being a wonderful team effort.Outside work Peppa loves Dock Dogs – a kind of canine aquatics long jump, where dogs runand jump into water to retrieve something. The winner is the one who jumps the furthest.Peppa adores being in water and we also enjoy open water swimming together. My best doggy holiday is anywhere in Scotland – no crowds, just beautiful spaces, beachesand great walks. Proudest moment was our first demo at Beverly Minster, where despite all the distractionsPeppa performed without fault. Peppa is such a kind, flexible dog; happy to work with anyone.She makes me proud every day.

Lizzie Phillips, Interim Training and Centre Manager, and her Cocker Spaniel cross Poodle Roscoe

I love being able to work with Roscoe to demonstrate the fabulous work we do. I’ve variousresponsibilities in the team including commentator, sound helper and dog handler.My favourite event was probably the CLA Game Fair at Harewood House in 2015.I’ll never forget when Roscoe did his first ever demo at Crufts last year. He was just so excitedto be there that he took himself off to greet all the spectators sat around the arena. Outside work we enjoy long walks, especially to the beach, where Roscoe loves to swim in the sea.My favourite doggy holiday is Northumberland for its dog-friendly beaches.There is no prouder moment than when you look at an audience during a demo and see theadmiration on their faces. Fun fact about me – I have achieved five national longbow records in archery


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Five plants to avoidthis seasonSome plants and flowers that are popular at Christmas arepoisonous and can be harmful to your dog if eaten. Here arefive plants you may wish to avoid this year…

PINE TREE NEEDLESChristmas tree pine needles can cause mouthirritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy,trembling and weakness

MISTLETOEMistletoe with its small white berries is mostpopular during the Christmas season. If eaten,it can cause intense vomiting and depression

HOLLYHolly is at its most attractive when covered inbright red berries during the winter months. Ifeaten, they can cause significant vomiting anddiarrhoea, difficulty in breathing, collapse,erratic behaviour, hallucinations and death

AMARYLLISAmaryllis plants contain substances that arehighly toxic to both cats and dogs. It maycause drooling vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominalpain, loss of appetite, lethargy and tremors

POINSETTIAPoinsettia can cause irritation to the mouthand stomach, and sometimes vomiting

Welcome Centregets the green light

MADE IN GERMANY

Vacuum cleaner specialist, SEBO, donated five new X1.1 SEBOvacuum cleaners to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Pictured isJustin Binks, Director of SEBO UK, who popped down to theCharity to hand over the new machines.

Anyone with long hair or a fluffy pet in the home will understandthe difficulty when trying to pick up hair. The X1.1 is SEBO’spowerful and versatile upright vacuum cleaner - with its crispgood looks and powerful 1150 watt motor, the SEBO X1.1 willmake a stylish and smart addition to your home.

This model is ideal for hard floors, carpets and rugs. With itshigh-tech on-board computer, it has the brains to do the thinkingfor you, controlling the height automatically so the brush isalways at the best position for the best results.

The X1.1’s sleek and lightweight body, with a lengthy 10m cord,glides effortlessly around surfaces. As its lightweight design goesflat-to-floor, it’s a breeze to vacuum all the pet hair under heavyfurniture, radiators and right up to the wall so every inch of floor is refreshed – even after the dog has been running around!

For further information on SEBO UK please call 01494 465533 or visit www.sebo.co.uk.

SEBO – perfect for a pet loving home

Trustees have given the go-ahead for a new WelcomeCentre to be built on site at The Grange, starting in the lastquarter of this year. The Welcome Centre, which is incelebration of our 35th anniversary in 2017, will allow us toopen our site more to visitors and showcase our charity. Itwill also house information and exhibits around deaf issuesas well as providing an easily accessible, on-site trainingvenue for our recently matched hearing dog partnerships,who are learning to be confident going out in public.

From January next year we will be looking for corporatesponsors for elements of the Centre including the interiorfittings, which will of course be styled as deaf-friendly.

In addition to guests and visitors, local hearing loss anddisability groups will be invited to the new centre to hosttheir meetings in a safe and pleasant environment.

You’ll be able to keep an eye on the building progress asyou come into The Grange as the new Welcome Centre willbe located in the area opposite the Memorial Wall, to theright as you walk in from the car park. Watch this space!

ADvERTORIAL


A major, three-year study into hearing dog partnerships is just gettingunderway. It is being led by a team based at the University of York.The research team would like to recruit a Project Advisory Panelof people who have a hearing dog. The team will ask the Panelfor advice about things like: doing good research interviews; the

information they will need about people taking part in the research;and how to present information clearly to people with hearing loss.

You don’t have to have any research experience or qualifications to be on the Project Advisory Panel.

There will be around 10 people on the Panel. The research team will consult with the Project AdvisoryPanel via group email chats. On average, the team will consult with the Panel every couple of months, but there may be times when the researchers need to seek the Panel’s advice a bit more often.

Think you might be interested in joining the Project Advisory Panel? Please contact the research team, who will be very pleased to send you some more information.Email: [email protected] You will be able to read more about this exciting project in future issues of inTouch…

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Do dogs respond more to affectionthan to treats?In a groundbreaking study publishedin the journal Social Cognitive andAffective Neuroscience, it appearsthat dogs respond to affectioneven more than treats.The study started by handing dogs differenttoys to receive as a rewardBerns, from Emory University, and hiscolleagues began their experiment bytraining dogs to associate threeobjects with three differentrewards: a pink toy truck withfood; a blue toy knight withverbal praise; and ahairbrush with theabsence of a reward.Over the course of32 trials, the 13participant dogswere presented withthe three objects.The dogs’ neuralresponses to eachstimulus weremeasured using afunctional MRImachine. All dogspreferred a rewardto none at all.

Four dogs showed a particularly strong response to the blue toyknight, while nine dogs responded equally to the two types ofreward. Only two dogs were consistently more excited about thepink toy truck and the food reward.

The second experiment allowed dogs to follow two paths –one to food, one to their ownerResearchers allowed dogs to follow one of two simple mazepaths: one leading to their owner, the other to a bowl of food.Owners sat with their backs turned and praised their dog whenhe or she arrived. “We found that the caudate response of eachdog in the first experiment correlated with their choices in thesecond experiment,” Berns said. “Dogs are individuals and their

neurological profiles fit the behavioural choices they make.

“Most of the dogs alternated between food and owner, butthe dogs with the strongest neural response to praise chose

to go to their owners 80–90 percent of the time,” Bernscontinued. “It shows the importance of social reward and praiseto dogs. It may be comparable to how we humans feel when

someone praises us.”

Next time you try a training exercise, see if a belly rub or justplain love and affection will do the trick,

so to speak!

Volunteers needed

for Project Advisory

Panel for a new

research project


There is great value in sharing experiences and havingthe opportunity to discuss common interests. Ourpartnership community days not only give localpartnerships an opportunity to get to know one another,they also provide a forum for deaf people with hearingdogs to ask questions, share experiences, and learnnew things. They are run and co-ordinated by ourpartnership instructorsso there is always afriendly face towelcome you alongto enjoy a fun, deaf-friendly andsociable event.And the feedbackfrom allconcerned hasbeenoverwhelminglypositive.

How oftendo they happen?We aim to offer community days within each regionthroughout the year so you’ll have the opportunity toattend at least one near you.

What happens at the community days?We’ve a rolling programme of activities and workshopssuch as: ‘Rally-o’, ‘planning for retirement’ and ‘corestability’, with others available on request such as‘grooming’, ‘access’, ‘first aid’, ‘dog communication’,‘how dogs learn’, to name just a few.

Will communication support beprovided?When you register we ask what communicationsupport you need so that we can do our best toaccommodate everyone. Most of the timecommunication support is provided by staff or someof our wonderful volunteers.

How can I find out when the next oneis planned near me? Are they listedon the website?Your partnership instructor (PI) will get in touch withyou to let you know about upcoming events.Alternatively you cancontact them.Eventually we will beable to make thiseasier usingdedicated socialmedia platforms orinternet portalshosted on our ownsystem – we willkeep you informedof any developmentsthrough inTouch.

I’ve an idea for a workshop, whatshould I do?We’d love you to tell us about the topics you’d likeincluded and the activities you’d like us to run infuture. Please contact your partnership instructordirectly.

Partnership community days

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We aim to offer community days within each region

is planned near me? Are they listedon the website?

of any developments

BSL


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Julie Smith and Keyne attended apartnership community day for the first time...Julie says: “Keyne, with his waggy tail, was excitedto be going somewhere new and meeting new dogsand people in the village hall.

“There were about six more hearing dogs and theirrecipients. I hadn’t met any of them before, despiteus all living fairly local to each other. Everyone wasfriendly and it was good to share our differentexperiences and listen to funny stories about thedogs, over a cuppa and delicious home-made cake.

“Partnership instructors were on hand to join in andoffer general advice. For the dogs, there was a miniobstacle course with cones, The PIs showed ushow they wanted the dogs to work the course.Keyne was watching this in eager anticipation, hecouldn’t wait to tackle it. All the dogs participated,and they really enjoyed the opportunity to show offhow well they could weave in and out of the cones,as well as their obedience skills.

“Towards the end, we all went off for a short walk toa beautiful village field in Sussex, where the dogs’uniforms came off, and they enjoyed running aroundthe field and playing with each other.

“I found the event really helpful. It was beneficial tobe able to meet local recipients, for the dogs to havesome fun, and to see partnership instructors outsideof our partnership support visits. We are very muchlooking forward to the next community event.”

Helen Ives “The response to our community days, particularly in Northern Ireland,has been so positive and rewarding. I know that this has been thespringboard for wonderful new friendships with people arranging tomeet up for dog walks or coffee. I recall one recipient enjoying the daysso much that she said she ‘would travel 1,000 miles to attend a day’!

“Something which always gets positive feedback is when guests fromHearing Dogs attend our events; whether it’s our colleagues fromwelfare or members of our local fundraising team. It’s a chance tolearn more about the Charity and people find it really interesting.”

Continued overleaf

Book your place at an event near you14 December – Plymouth15 December – East Sussex15 December – Wiltshire16 December – Worcester18 December – Norwich

Please contact your partnership instructor for more details.What our partnership instructors say...


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Emma Coates“I find the games are agood ice-breaker, andgive people a chanceto show off their dog-handling skills.Wehave lots of fun.There are momentswhen we all fallabout laughing andit’s great forrecipients to havethat light-hearted interaction with eachother. As time has gone on, it feels like the group isbecoming closer and forming friendships.Sometimes recipients share the challenges they’rehaving, and the support they get from each othermeans a lot. I really enjoy giving the group achance to discuss what’s important to them and Ialways like to schedule in plenty of time to explorethese questions and see where the day takes us.”

Christina Pavely“It’s lovely when recipients come together over ashared passion – the love of their hearing dog –and make new friends. At one of my communitydays two of my partnerships were surprised to meeteach other as they’d been friends in secondaryschool, but neither realised the other had alsobecome a hearing dog recipient.What a lovely coincidence that was!

“It has also been useful to spendtime practising sounds,tasks and behaviourswhich help individualsto tick off milestonestowards PartnershipAwards.

“There hasbeen a greatbuzz aboutthese andpractising in a group is good fun.”

that light-hearted interaction with each

Natalie Wood“When I began runningcommunity days, thefeedback was fantastic. I normally have around15 partnerships attendfrom my area and theyoften bring a familymember or friend. It’s lovely to meet themall together.

“Among the top issuespeople are most concerned about are health issuesand access. It’s a really positive environment todiscuss experiences – all over a cup of tea andbiscuits.

“Every community day has a different feel. We did abig community dog walk at one, which was a lot offun for us and the dogs. On another day someonefrom our welfare team talked about dog health. Wekeep our plans for the day fresh and interesting andalways leave time for a good natter.

“We held a special community day for our youngpartnerships, which was a big hit!. They enjoyedmeeting other children with hearing dogs and thefamilies seemed to get a lot out of the day too. Weplayed interactive games and held competitions. It’sdefinitely something we will do again next year.”

Lyndsey Clanahan“At our last communityday, 10 of ourpartnerships attended.Our venue had anenclosed garden areaand it was lovely tolet the dogs run freeand have funtogether. We had anice mix of workingand retired hearingdogs plus one verynew partnership. It was super useful for them all to share theirexperiences. Everyone is in the same situation andso willing to offer ideas and support to each other. It feels like a very close group.”

always like to schedule in plenty of time to explorethese questions and see where the day takes us.”

people are most concerned about are health issues

good ice-breaker, andgive people a chance

Christina with the late great Wallace,her best pal

Lyndsey with her pet Ruby


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‘Sound support’ dogs...As well as being a well-behavedcompanion for someone with hearingloss, a ‘sound support’ dog can offer theadded benefit of being trained to alerttheir recipient to important soundsaround their home. But informationabout our ‘sound support’ dogs hasbeen slow to reach those who wouldmost benefit from having one. Here wehighlight the applicant criteria for ‘soundsupport’ dogs, explain how you can help,and find out how one of these specialdogs is already making a difference

What does a ‘sound support’ dog do?‘Sound support’ dogs• alert you to sounds at home• restore confidence and independence• provide companionship and unconditional love• increase well-being• are mentored by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

for the lifetime of the partnership.

Who can apply for a ‘sound support’ dog?We are inviting applications from deaf adults who• have moderate, fluctuating or progressive

hearing loss

• need awareness to sounds at home but areconfident enough to go out and about on their own

• would like a canine companion in their lives andcan offer appropriate exercise and stimulation

• are either retired, working from home, workingpart-time or able to take a pet to work

• are willing to work with the Charity to ensure thepartnership reaches its potential

Please note: ‘sound support’ dogs are not fullyaccredited and so don’t have the burgundy HearingDogs jacket and ADUK identity book that permits legalaccess to public places. For this reason a ‘soundsupport’ dog may not be the best solution for someonewith severe or profound hearing loss who wantsassistance outside their home environment.

How you can help…At present we are able to provide 10–20 ‘soundsupport’ dogs each year. Please help us reach outto those who would benefit most by speaking topeople in your community. In particular, if you knowor meet someone who fits these application criteria,please suggest they contact Debbie Martin in clientservices on 01844 348111 (for NGT/Text relayplease use the prefix 18001) or [email protected]

Val and Archer“I applied for a hearing dog in 2015. At thetime I was outside of the criteria for anaccredited hearing dog. However the teamspoke to me about another way they mightbe able to help. The idea of a ‘sound support’dog appeared interesting so we went aheadwith the application. After a home interviewand assessment I was offered Archer, a golden Cocker Spaniel, who I thoughtwas delightful.

“Since being matched in summer 2015,Archer has been a great support to me in the home and agreat companion. We go on camping holidays and he isa real character too.

REAL LIFE

Sound support partnership “I am so gratefulto have beengiven theopportunity tohave Archer andthe idea that Icould have a dogto tell me aboutthe sounds Icould miss in thehome and be awonderfulcompanion isfantastic.”

BSL


Remembering BrunoCharity support dog belonging to Hearing Dogs’ interim trainingteam leader, Nicci Cross

I remember the first time Isaw you standing there inthe kitchen doorway, thisskinny, big-eared dogwith a top knot, smiling atme. I still see you thereclear as day and wenever looked back. I amso proud of you and ourjourney together.

I would say you werealways by my side, buton a walk you werealways one stepahead of me, offexploring and gettingup to goodness knowwhat – especially if

you'd spotted a picnic, a squirrel, apheasant, chickens or a rabbit! But that was your time to letyour hair down and run free. You entertained and amusedeveryone you met and always got attention wherever we wentand you took it all in your stride. You were the best sous chef,always helping out in the kitchen, never missing a crumb! Atdemonstrations, ‘temptation ally’ never stood a chance whenyou were around and your showmanship always made youshine – even when you made the occasional detour off courseto greet your fans... or more likely to investigate what theywere eating, just in case they felt like sharing! Now the houseis so silent without your snores and funny little groans. I havebeen blessed to have you in my life You have been my rock,my soulmate, my best friend, and asked for so little in return.Sleep tight, my angel, your wings were ready, but my heart was not.

I remember the first time Isaw you standing there inthe kitchen doorway, thisskinny, big-eared dogwith a top knot, smiling atme. I still see you thereclear as day and wenever looked back. I amso proud of you and ourjourney together.

I would say you werealways by my side, buton a walk you werealways one stepahead of me, offexploring and gettingup to goodness knowwhat – especially if

you'd spotted a picnic, a squirrel, apheasant, chickens or a rabbit! But that was your time to let

Remembering ErinDemonstration dog for Jan Smith,Hearing Dogs volunteer fromLincolnshire

Erin, beloved companion,demonstration dog and all roundsuperstar to Jan Smith. After nearly10 years glued to Jan’s side Erinsadly passed away on 2 October.Erin was involved in so many chaptersof the Charity’s history and Jan’s life that it would beimpossible to describe them all. But we couldn’t miss theopportunity to pay tribute to a wonderful dog whose soft browneyes will never be forgotten and whose gentle nature shonethrough after a difficult start in life. Jan attributes phrases and songlyrics that represent her dogs’ spirit and “Don’t stop me now cosI’m having such a good time…” was definitely fitting for dear Erinwho never lost that lust for life. Farewell, beautiful girl.

Erin was involved in so many chaptersof the Charity’s history and Jan’s life that it would be

TributesThese pages are dedicated to the memory of the people and dogs who have helped shape Hearing Dogs for Deaf People into the successful and respected organisation it is today.

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RememberingPaigeHearing dog to Barry Dykefrom Telford, Shropshire

Paige was my hearing dogfor 15 years. She was notonly a wonderful friend tome, she was also a hardworker, always reliableand never let me down.She gave me completeconfidence. Everyonewho knew Paige loved herto bits – there was a very long list of people wanting toadopt her! I could never have a better dog and I miss her so much.

who knew Paige loved herto bits – there was a very long list of people wanting to

Remembering Poppy Hearing dog to John Mallendine from Sleaford, Lincolnshire

My lovely Labrador, Poppy, has now gone to rest. She wasn’t well,and was giving me that typical Labrador look to say, “Dad, pleasehelp me”. The vet couldn’thelp, in spite of trying herbest. So I cuddled Poppy, soshe knew I loved her. Shegave me a lick, and slippedaway peacefully in my arms.I couldn’t see it happen,because of the tears in myeyes – and they’re stillthere.

I have lost my best pal, my best friend, mylovely baby, who I loved so very much. Now my darling Poppy, I’mleft with only memories: the way you would wake me with a lick;sitting on the floor in front of the log burner on a cold winter evening,having a cuddle; walks across the Lincolnshire fields, whilst youplayed with all your doggie pals.

No more talks or fundraising events to add to nearly 1,000 we’vedone. No more lying at the front gate to see all the kids who’d stop tosay “Good morning, Poppy” on their way to school. No more Sundaylunches together at the Golf Club – where Poppy was an officialhonorary member – and the constant chorus of “Hello, Poppy”.

My darling, prayers were said for you last Sunday in our church, andmany tears were shed. I loved you so much, and now I have to returnto the lonely, empty life of the deaf. The house is cold and emptywithout you, and the sun no longer shines, but at least I have thephotographs and the memories of the happy times we have spenttogether, and I know that you are no longer in pain.

Rest in Peace my darling girlLove John

I have lost my best pal, my best friend, mylovely baby, who I loved so very much. Now my darling Poppy, I’m


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Remembering Doree Hearing dog to Howerd Hodgkissonfrom Solihull, West Midlands

Our beloved dog Doreepassed away in September.She was a gentle, kind andloyal dog. Everyone in theneighbourhood knew andloved her. We were Doree'ssecond home. She was fouryears old when she came tous and bonded right away.She spent the next 10 yearswith us, doing her work andraising an enormousamount of money forHearing Dogs, accompanying Howard to givetalks – something she really loved doing – and helping us raisemore than £50,000 for Hearing Dogs.

Doree was not without her own health challenges. She had tohave cataracts removed; then she developed glaucoma whicheventually resulted in her losing her right eye. But Doree took itall in her stride. Then out of the blue she became very seriouslyill. She fought hard but two weeks later she passed away. Shewill be in our hearts always. RIP dear Doree.

Hearing Dogs, accompanying Howard to givetalks – something she really loved doing – and helping us raise

Remembering Phil Todd Hearing Dogs volunteer from Fangfoss, East Riding of Yorkshire

Phil’s wife Jean writes:“When Phil and I married20 years ago I laid downthe rules: no Formula 1racing, no cigars and nodogs! Imagine mysurprise when Phil askedme if I would beinterested in doing a spotof B&B for Hearing Dogsfor Deaf People. I hadworked in the hospitalityindustry but guests athome were not in myretirement plan! He thenwent on to explain he

had met a hearing dog trainer in Sainsbury’s whohad told him they were on the lookout for people to look aftertrainee dogs. Phil had found his purpose: to put his knowledgeand skills of nurturing dogs to good use. After attending theThursday tour at the Beatrice Wright Centre in Bielby, our fatewas sealed. We have enjoyed the delights of Tilly, Levi, Jessieand Petal. Instead of allowing Parkinson’s to slow him downPhil revved up and put all his energy into doing what he didbest, throwing himself into a new and exciting venture that has enriched both our lives. At his funeral, people gavegenerously to his favourite charities and we were delighted topresent Hearing Dogs with a cheque to further the marvellouswork they do. Thank you for inviting us to join you on thisincredible journey.”

Phil’s wife Jean writes:“When Phil and I married20 years ago I laid downthe rules: no Formula 1racing, no cigars and nodogs! Imagine mysurprise when Phil askedme if I would beinterested in doing a spotof B&B for Hearing Dogsfor Deaf People. I hadworked in the hospitalityindustry but guests athome were not in myretirement plan! He thenwent on to explain he

had met a hearing dog trainer in Sainsbury’s who

Remembering Liffey Hearing dog to Lynn Wild (née Kolsteren) from New Romney, Kent

Liffey, my one constant inlife for almost 10 years,fell asleep, her head onmy lap. The one thinghelping me through myloss is knowing I wasable to do as I'dpromised her, to takeher pain away. Liffeymade my life 3D, nowit's returned to 2D –with hearing loss itisn't only sound wemiss, we lose perspective inour surroundings. I will miss her tail wag against myleg at the cafe counter – an indication she had seen family,friend or dog lover. This meant I never missed any opportunityto socialise or briefly chat with a stranger on passing. I missseeing her react to sounds in the street – when peopleapproached from behind, she'd look back, then so would I andbe able make room for them to pass. I miss waking and seeingher in her bed, from where she'd come over for a back rub. Imiss her watching me in the kitchen and walking with me intothe bathroom. I miss her sense of humour – taking my sockgently in her teeth, pulling it off my foot, running across theroom and throwing it high into the air, triumphantly. I miss hermaking me aware of sounds – she would even alert me if myporridge was bubbling too furiously on the hob! I miss howshe'd head straight for 'her' chair at my parents’ house as mymother has mobility problems and Liffey had to stay off thefloor in the sitting room. She lit up their life, just like she didmine. We went everywhere together. Staying in a hotel was noworry for me, knowing Liffey would alert me if necessary. Sheis a little dog who has left a very big paw print on my life, butalso on the lives of others. I miss her, my shadow.

Remembering Pat GosdenHearing Dogs volunteer from Molden, Essex

Pat Gosden had a longand loyal friendship withHearing Dogs for DeafPeople. She was anactive puppy socialiserfor Hearing Dogsbetween 1991 and1999 helping us assessand train more than 25dogs – most of whichwere former rescuedogs, ranging fromthe smallestChihuahua to thelargest mongrel.Among them werethe very ninetiessounding Kylie as well asNibs, Boo and Twinkie! Pat devoted herself togiving these lucky pups a great start on their journey and helpingus create numerous life-changing partnerships.

In fact Pat was generous in many other ways too. She not onlylooked after our pups, but was also one of the first people tosponsor a dog through our regular giving scheme; somethingshe continued to do until she passed away in September. Patsaw the Charity virtually double in size since becoming involvedin 1991, and as a volunteer and supporter she played animportant part in that success.

miss, we lose perspective inour surroundings. I will miss her tail wag against my

Hearing dog to Howerd Hodgkisson

sounding Kylie as well asNibs, Boo and Twinkie! Pat devoted herself togiving these lucky pups a great start on their journey and helping


The Grange, Wycombe Road, Saunderton, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, HP27 9NST 01844 348100 (voice and minicom) F 01844 348101 E [email protected]

Registered charity in England and Wales no. 293358 and in Scotland no. SC040486 • Royal Patron HRH The Princess Royal

Remembering Ted Hearing dog to Chris Hart from Tewksbury, Gloucestershire

Ted my Papillon was the best.He understood sign-languageand lipreading, was quick,reliable, and loved alerting meto sounds. He’d tell me heneeded water by staring atme with his head turnedtowards his tail until Ifollowed him to his emptydish. Ted always stayedclose and never ran off. Wehad a very strong bond. Henever liked me being out ofhis sight – if I was in thebathroom he would wait outside until Icame out. Ted enjoyed playing with the same soft toy mouse for14 years – he had others but that was his favourite. Ted wasalways polite and well-behaved; sitting patiently if I stopped totalk to a friend. He was also very sociable and loved to sit onlaps! Sadly he passed away in his sleep after a short illness aged16. I’ve many photos of Ted; they make me feel he’s still watchingover me. Bless him. We’ll meet in heaven when I go. Ted was likemy ‘son’. Roxanna and I loved Ted so much and we miss him.

Remembering Wallace Companion dog to partnership instructor Christina Pavely

Wallace was one of five miniaturePoodle cross Chihuahua pupsdonated to Hearing Dogs.Wallace’s four siblings all becamehearing dogs, but he decidedworking wasn’t for him! Mygorgeous black bundle of fluffcompletely converted me to littledogs. He spent 10 yearstravelling around the country withme, and met many hearing dogpartnerships. He had lots of funover the years. He was a verypopular, cheeky boy, full of lifeand love. Wallace was also atough little dog; in later years herecovered from a slipped disc, a stroke and a ruptured cruciate.But at 16 years old he developed an incurable cancer. He hadto be put to sleep after a final two weeks of being spoilt rotten.I’m sure many people will remember my Wallace. I will neverforget him.

bathroom he would wait outside until Icame out. Ted enjoyed playing with the same soft toy mouse for

Photography © Paul Wilkinson, Nick Ridley, Ron Coulter, Hearing Dogs staff

Book of RemembranceTo remember your loved one in our Book of Remembrance please contact Jane Albin on

01844 348148 (voice and minicom) or email [email protected]

RememberingYvonne Lynn Hearing dog recipient from Harold Hill, Essex

Yvonne got her first hearingdog, a gentle mongrelnamed Ally, in 1990. Allymeant the world to her andthey were devoted to eachother. He restored herconfidence to go out and aboutand to get involved in activities in her local community.She was committed to raising funds for the Charity andattended local shows and events almost every week, whateverthe weather. She would collect unwanted soft toys fromneighbours and knit colourful ones of her own to sell on herstall at local shows and events. Over the years this small butdedicated effort amounted to an incredible £5,967.82 raised forHearing Dogs. When Ally retired Yvonne got her secondhearing dog, Polly, a small black crossbreed with gremlin-likeears. The two dogs became good friends until Ally died in2001. Having Polly helped ease the pain of losing her belovedAlly. Polly would trot along beside Yvonne on her mobilityscooter all the way to the park and then hop on board to get aride back when she’d had enough! Yvonne loved all animals,especially horses. She had enjoyed the company of dogs allher life but none gave her more pleasure than her two hearingdogs. She is sadly missed by all who knew her but most of allby her loving family and friends.

Remembering

confidence to go out and aboutand to get involved in activities in her local community.

RememberingKimi Hearing dog to BarbaraBallard from WorcesterPark, Surrey

For nearly 15 years mydear Kimi loved andcared for me in her ownspecial way; alwaysquick to bring sounds tomy attention, even after shehad officially retired. So in a way Kimi never did reallyretire! She was the most amazing little dog. Kimi and I were thegreatest of pals with a strong and special bond. I miss her somuch both for her devotion and her loving companionship. Shewas my life. I feel sure we will be together again one day. Untilthen Kimi will be alive in my heart. Goodbye for now, myprecious Kimi, my faithful friend.

Poodle cross Chihuahua pupsdonated to Hearing Dogs.Wallace’s four siblings all became

my attention, even after shehad officially retired. So in a way Kimi never did really

recovered from a slipped disc, a stroke and a ruptured cruciate.


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