I've Met Many Adorable Dogs in My Line of Work

Issue 53 SPRING 2016 £1.75 when sold

The magazine from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

Spread the word Find out why it’s good to talk

PLUS How Indie learned to be a hearing dog The Great British Dog Walk 2016 What to do if your dog starts to go deaf

I’ve met “many adorable“ dogs in my “This little dog transformed line of work our lives” Malcolm & Anne Angellica Bell on learning to sign and launch our Hope for her ideal dog-walking companion Hearing Dogs Appeal

Spring 201622 | In this issue… 4

Regulars 30 4 | A dog’s life Welcome! The latest news including an We’ve put together a feature-packed issue update on the Elsie Appeal of Favour full of inspiring stories and 16 | Get involved great ideas for how you can get involved Could you help to train a puppy? with Hearing Dogs. In this issue we look 18 | You and your dog Photo: Paul Wilkinson at the telltale signs that your dog might be How to communicate with your dog losing his hearing (p28), and ways to keep communicating if he if he starts to lose his hearing does go deaf (p18). Turn to page 16 to find out if you could train to 2 6 | Get involved locally be a puppy socialiser, or help us spread the word by becoming a Find out how you can spread the word registered speaker (p26). Spring is just around 28 | Ask the experts the corner, so have a look at our Great How to tell if your dog is losing his hearing and what to do about it British Dog Walk round-up on page 24 to find out how to take part. Finally, it’s our 30 | Paws for coffee Awards issue and on pages 10–13 you can Angellica Bell chats with Favour meet our inspirational winners – both human and canine. Enjoy! Features Gill Lacey Editor 24 08 | Conﬁ dence boost How Tegan transformed Anne’s life Next issue Look out for 10 | Take a bow wow! Favour magazine the next issue Celebrating incredible partnerships is named after in autumn Hearing Dogs’ very first dog Favour. 2016 14 | Puppy sponsorship Find out how Labrador Indie has Hearing Dogs for Deaf People Royal Patron Useful contact details turned Jo’s life around The Grange, Wycombe Road, HRH The Princess Royal (voice and minicom): Saunderton, Princes Risborough Fundraising Registered charity in England and 20 | Acoustic neuroma HP27 9NS 01844 348148 A new study looks at the reasons why Wales no. 293358 and Scotland Volunteering T 01844 348100 (voice & minicom) no. SC040486 these tumours can lead to hearing loss F 01844 348101 01844 348100 E [email protected] Member of UK Council on Media enquiries 01844 348137 22 | Gifts in Wills www.hearingdogs.org.uk Deafness, Assistance Dogs (UK), One couple explains why they wanted Cover photo of Angellica Bell Assistance Dogs Europe and to leave a gift to the Charity in their Wills by Paul Wilkinson Assistance Dogs International Articles and features printed in Favour are not necessarily the views of the Charity but are the views expressed by the writers. 23 | Kids corner We welcome your comments. Make a bandana for your dog Advertisements Hearing Dogs for Deaf People cannot be liable to any person for loss or damage incurred or suffered as a result of his/her accepting or offering to accept goods or services contained in any advertisement reproduced inFavour . Readers should make appropriate enquiries before incurring any expense or contractual obligation. 24 | The Great British Dog Walk Produced by 90 Walcot Street, Bath, BA2 5BG. www.jppublishing.co.uk How to get involved in 2016 3 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR NewsA Views dog Updates ’Wes sniff outlife the stories that matter to you…

LISTENING PROJECT Back to school Do deaf children learn better when there’s a dog in the classroom? The Listening Dog Project aims to ﬁ nd out…

Hearing dog Lily spent three months in the classroom

Lily with some of the children from the reading class and project leaders

Ambassador hearing dog Lily spent launched the pilot project last and a mainstream school with a three months in the classroom with year with the help of two charity deaf unit, the team is measuring 12 children learning to read at a volunteers, says: “Evaluation of this the motivation and engagement of primary school in Doncaster. preliminary project was very pupils over a longer period of time The children all had severe encouraging, suggesting that the and in different learning situations. or profound hearing loss and presence of a hearing dog has There will be some had special needs due to significant potential to improve a more on The dyslexia, attention deficit deaf child’s learning experience. Listening Dog disorder or learning difficulties. “The improvements were Project in The Listening Dog Project particularly marked for a future issues wanted to examine whether pupils subgroup of children who had the of Favour. with hearing loss would be more most complex and significant motivated by the presence of a educational challenges.” validated dog and handler. The latest phase of the project Angie Platten, head of Hearing started in January. Working in Dogs partnership services, who collaboration with a deaf school

“This project suggests the presence of a hearing dog has significant potential” 4 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk News

Bond: “You have my promise…” Diary dates SUPPORTER PROMISE

MARCH TO JUNE Great British Dog Walk We promise Join us on a Great British Dog Walk near you – see page 24

9 APRIL that we won’t Hearing Dogs Spring Open Day The Grange, Bucks let you down 4–10 MAY Deaf Awareness Week HEARING DOGS for Volunteer Events throughout the UK Deaf People is launching chairman of 11 SEPTEMBER a Supporter Promise Hearing Dogs Hearing Dogs Late Summer that sets out clearly our Faith Clark Show promise to you and says: “Your The Grange, Bucks what you can expect support is vital. 19 & 20 NOVEMBER from us in terms of Your generosity Hearing Dogs our values and how and kindness Christmas Market we operate. has allowed The Grange, Bucks Our relationship with us to help you, our supporters, is thousands of For details see: www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ critical to the work we deaf adults and impact with the funds events or call Melanie Tyrer do. We’ve included children live more fulfilled that you entrust to us. on 01844 348181 a copy of our Supporter and independent lives. “With some charities Promise with this issue “Every week 1,750 receiving bad press for of Favour magazine, volunteers around the poor practices, we FUNDRAISING alongside a ‘keepsafe’ country give us their time want each and every poster pin-up of our because they believe in experience with Hearing STICK WITH IT! beautiful hearing dog what we do. We want Dogs to be enriching Thank you for recycling your Bond, so that you can people like you to go on and positive. This is used stamps. The total raised reference it any time. supporting us year after where our Supporter from stamp donations in 2015 Our Supporter year because you know Promise comes in.” reached £11,848.49! This has Promise is also live on our that we consistently and www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ helped us train more dogs like supporter-promise little Penny to be hearing dogs. website for all to read. transparently make an It’s easy to do… ORDER We can send you 1 boxes or envelopes TRIBUTE TRIM Stamps should have 2 a paper border about 1cm wide IN MEMORY OF BEN SORT Take out any LOUISE AND JEREMY Pocock lost their son Ben 3 preprinted postage marks when flight MH17 was shot down over the Ukraine or labels, they add weight in July 2014. but we can’t claim Ben was studying International Business at anything back Loughborough University and was on his way to PACK The trick is to get complete a study abroad programme at the 4 as many stamps in without University of Western Australia in Perth. it bursting Louise and Jeremy, who are both deaf, had lost ENJOY Recycle knowing their hearing dog the previous year and Ben’s 5 the impact you are making university friends, Jamie, Will and David, wanted to on a deaf person’s life raise money for Hearing Dogs in Ben’s memory. Every little helps and they all Jamie explains: “Without dwelling on the sadness add up to so much. Email of the situation, it’s important for us to focus on how jessica.grant@hearingdogs. truly inspirational Ben’s parents have been. org.uk or call 01844 348135 “Louise has since been partnered with her new hearing dog, Tapper, who has proved to be an Penny gets stuck into enormous support. We’ve managed to raise over stamp recycling £5,500 so far, but we’re aiming for £10,000 so we can name a hearing dog in memory of Ben.” To support their fundraising go to: www. justgiving.com/ben-pocock-LDNtriathlon

5 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR News

Newly retired Spotty Sara Head enjoys FUNDRAISING relaxes in the sunshine some time out with Spotty Boost for Elsie Appeal REMEMBER ELSIE, the little pup with big potential? In the last issue of Favour we told you that she was doing really well, but had some issues we needed to address. We’re very happy to tell you that the Elsie Appeal has now reached £22,275 and thanks to your generosity, and plenty of time and treats from her trainer Lou, Elsie is now much better at giving up Kermit, her favourite green ball toy. She’s also stopped eating raspberries off bushes. In fact she’s FRIEND FOR LIFE forging ahead! She is brilliant at obedience, especially the ‘wait’ Hearing dog Spotty retires command, and she’s about to take the big leap into ‘soundwork’ – that is, WHEN THE Hearing Dog Friend Friends who made it possible for learning how to tell deaf people about scheme was launched by Phillip Spotty to come into my life – she’s important sounds such as the cooker Schofield in 2004, Spotty quickly been the perfect hearing dog. I teach timer and fire alarm. You helped make this possible. Thank you. gained 477 Friends who made in a primary school and Spotty came monthly donations to help support in with me every day. She won the Elsie is making her training and partnership. hearts of all the deaf pupils who great progress This cheerful black and white passed through my classes. crossbreed, adopted by Hearing “Spotty still dashes around with Dogs for Deaf People from a rescue as much enthusiasm as she ever did centre, became the hearing dog of and no loss of stamina. Only her Sara Head, a teacher of deaf children greying muzzle and slightly cloudy in Hertfordshire. eyes give her away as an old dog. Spotty’s Friends continued to “Although I now have Tandy to receive regular updates until 2011 alert me to sounds, Spotty is and when the new puppy sponsorship always will be my very dear lifelong scheme was introduced. friend. Thank you.” Now aged 13, Spotty was retired You can sponsor a hearing from her working role in November dog puppy by completing the but continues to live with Sara and enclosed form, or find the form her successor hearing dog Tandy. online at: www.hearing Sara says: “I’m so grateful to all the dogs.org.uk/puppy R-R-R-RAFFLE PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP Someone, somewhere, is going to win TEAM EFFORT £8,000 in our Spring R-r-r-raffle (yes, you do have to pronounce it like that). TIGERS SPONSOR PUPPIES You might already have received your raffle pack. If you haven’t then it’s not HULL CITY TIGERS had their too late to get some tickets – just training interrupted by a special Hull City call us on 0800 954 0257 or visit from two hearing dog manager [email protected] and we puppies. Manager Steve Bruce Steve Bruce will send you your tickets. The raffle was particularly taken by Sophie, a with Sophie closes on 29 April with the winners 16-week-old Labrador pup. announced on 6 May. Good luck! The Tigers have teamed up with Hearing Dogs to sponsor Sophie and Isla, a Cocker Spaniel puppy, who live with local volunteers for their early training and socialisation. Press officer Luke Cash said: “It was great to meet Isla and Sophie and it’s amazing to think these puppies will go on to change a deaf person’s life.”

6 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk News

STAR ATTRACTION Celebrity watch Amanda Hart

Photo: ONLINE FAN CLUB TOP OF THE PUPS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Our most popular image on social media in the past six months was posted on 7 January. The post got 3,460 likes, comments and shares and reached 53,613 people. Having fun: Marc the vet, Pam St Clement and Tim Vincent at our late summer show

You’re my best friend: Brian May and Anita Dobson called in to meet our dogs Paul Wilkinson Paul

Photo:

This gorgeous image taken by Paul Wilkinson of demo dogs Buffy, Rory and Robyn was posted on 11 November. It simply read: “Our I’m in: hearing dogs are wearing their Dragons’ Den Trust me: The One star Deborah Meaden poppies in recognition of Armistice Show’s Dr Sarah Jarvis helps promote our made friends with Day.” This post got 3,114 likes, access campaign Selwyn in December comments and shares and reached 49,935 people.

TELEVISION DONATIONS WRIGHT SHOWS WHAT’S WRONG Foreign coin CHANNEL 5 presenter Matthew Wright invited Hearing Dogs ambassador Ben Fogle and recipient Catherine Broughton – with collection her hearing dog Beni – onto his show in October to discuss Don’t let your purse get weighed down access for deaf people with hearing dogs. with your leftover holiday coins, donate Ben told Matthew: “I’ve been involved with Hearing Dogs them to Hearing Dogs instead. We for Deaf People for years, my father introduced the charity now have a neat little box available for to the UK, so it’s been a big part of the collecting foreign coins. Fogle family. Alternatively we have “They’ve actually just done a study with a a box in reception terrifying statistic that 70% of people who at The Grange are deaf have been turned away from taxis, that you cafes and shops with their assistance dogs.” can pop Catherine agreed: “I’ve been coins into if turned away many times. When you lose you’re passing your hearing there’s no doubt about it, it by. To find out changes your personality. Beni has given me more or to request a box, please call back a lot of confidence and he alerts me to 01413 289357 or email these dangers. He really is a very, hearingdogs@xchange- very valuable dog.” Ben Fogle with master.co.uk Catherine and Beni

7 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Tegan has made a huge difference Please support our to Anne’s life: physically and Hope for Hearing emotionally Dogs Appeal

I lost my hearing when I had surgery Anne Pickett regained her conﬁ dence and her “ happiness when Tegan joined the family

MALCOLM PICKETT hearing loss there was describes his wife Anne as my facial palsy.” ” an independent, strong and For Malcolm, the relief of confident woman. Even when having Anne home after two an MRI scan in 2004 revealed weeks in hospital gave way an acoustic neuroma, he says to a feeling of helplessness as she met her diagnosis with he watched his wife become courage and resilience. more and more withdrawn: It was only after she had “She was so pleased to be surgery to remove the tumour home – and in time to share that Anne says the full extent Christmas celebrations with of it began to sink in. “I had everyone. But that was when my surgery only about two she first felt the isolation of weeks after I was diagnosed, it; how deafness cuts you off, so it came as quite a shock. even when you’re with Initially I think you’re elated to family and friends.” “Anne is now the be alive but a month or two Anne still finds it upsetting lady that I remember down the line you realise what to talk about how she felt: when we married” you’ve lost. As well as the “The facial palsy and the 8 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Appeal

hearing loss were major hearing dog I started to feel obstacles. People didn’t better,” says Anne. “The want to ask ‘What is wrong moment I met her there Support our Hope for with you?’ but you could see was no doubt that we were Hearing Dogs Appeal they were thinking there’s going to be a partnership. something not quite right. It Tegan is very strong-willed – Volunteer Malcolm Pickett is championing our appeal asking you to give a little hope... just made me feel so alone.” Malcolm says we are very well matched! I have seen the devastating impact of hearing A different person “Tegan helps me in so loss on my wife, Anne. It made communication Malcolm explains: “It began to many ways. She wakes me hard and the isolation cut her off from family and friends. have a devastating effect on up in the morning and alerts Then she learned she had been accepted for a hearing dog. From that moment Anne started to feel better. She had hope “It is remarkable how this little dog for the future – and that’s the inspiration for has transformed both our lives” our appeal. We want to raise £25,000 to help train her confidence. She became me to the doorbell. She has another hearing dog like Tegan. This will give another deaf person like Anne that precious withdrawn and emotionally also given me the confidence place on the list for a hearing dog – a little bit dependent on me; she was to go out again, which has of hope; something that will help them to feel like a different person. If I enhanced my life beyond more positive about their future. wasn’t around then she would measure. It is remarkable We can make a real difference to a deaf tend to stay indoors. Her how this little dog has person’s life by making their hope a reality. mental wellbeing was not transformed our lives.” Please make a donation if you’d like to support good. I was worried about Malcolm agrees: “Tegan our Hope for Hearing Dogs Appeal – every little helps. Thank you leaving her alone while brings us so much joy and she I went to work.” makes us smile all the time. “Going out alone became She has had such a massive a real challenge and I affect on Anne’s wellbeing – To donate you can: gradually stopped doing it,” both mentally and physically.” says Anne. “Malcolm took Anne acknowledges this Complete the donation form enclosed with early retirement because of with a smile: “I find it hard this magazine my condition. He didn’t want to believe now that I was the Donate online at to leave me at home because shy, nervous person that I www.hearingdogs.org.uk/hope he knew I got depressed. He was before we got Tegan. Send a cheque to Hope for Hearing Dogs just became my carer.” It’s this dog that’s made me Appeal, FREEPOST RSGX-LSRG-UCGH, the person I am now. Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, The Grange, Meeting the challenge “Tegan is my therapy; my Wycombe Road, Saunderton, Princes The couple had always friend and my companion. Risborough HP27 9NS shared an interest in dogs She’s there for me.” and while their children were growing up they had been volunteer puppy walkers. “Never did I think that one “We have a special day I would be grateful for bond, Tegan and I” LIFE-CHANGING an assistance dog myself,” HEARING DOG says Anne. In November last year Anne OF THE YEAR Her decision had Malcolm’s and Tegan were presented with AWARD full support: “Applying for the Royal Canin Life-Changing a hearing dog was the first Partnership of the Year award positive step Anne had taken in a long time. TURN TO PAGE 10 to read more “As soon as I got the heart-warming stories from the inspirational news that I’d been accepted Hearing Dogs Awards 2015 onto the waiting list for a 9 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Take a

bowThe inspirational Hearing Dogs Awards 2015 were a chance to celebrate the achievements of ourWOW ! incredible dogs and their recipients

Cola is my Winner LIFE-CHANGING CHILD PARTNERSHIP “best friend AWARD A hearing dog has had a dramatic effect on young Esmee’s life: with Cola by her ” side she feels safe and secure

ESMEE DRAKE lives in eight months of her life in was unable to concentrate Brighton with her mum, intensive care. in school, which affected her twin sister Eliza and her Mum Louise says: “I knew her confidence.” older brother Arthur. The from about two months that twins were born six weeks Esmee was profoundly deaf Love at first sight premature and it was a but she was about two and a Louise describes the first difficult start for them; half before I got a second time Esmee met Cocker both had hearing opinion. We were referred to Spaniel Cola. “We really loss but Esmee was Manchester Cochlear Implant wanted a Labrador and we born profoundly Centre, and to be told that she weren’t convinced that a deaf, with an would need yet more surgery Spaniel was right for us, but under-developed was really scary. the moment Esmee laid eyes oesophagus and a “Esmee was fearful in bed at on Cola she fell in love.” hole in her heart. night, in the dark and unable Since the arrival of Cola, She was so to hear. She was scared of who sleeps at the end of fragile she being alone and would spend her bed, Esmee now feels needed ten hours getting out of bed to safe and secure. She says operations and check where everyone was. her life has changed so spent the first The lack of sleep meant she much. “Before I had Cola, I couldn’t sleep or had bad dreams. When I went to “Before I had Cola, I had bad school I was so tired that I couldn’t do any work. Now dreams. Now Cola sleeps next Cola sleeps next to me and to me and it makes me feel safe” it makes me feel safe. 10 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Awards

HEROIC PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR AWARD “My loyal protector” Faced with imminent danger, plucky Joe leapt into action

MATTHEW LUNNEY and his Matthew and Golden Retriever Joe are winners of Joe with awards the Specsavers Heroic Partnership of host Dame the Year 2015 award. Esther Rantzen The award, which recognises heroic Esmee and her mum, Louise, acts of courage and bravery, was enjoying the ceremony, far presented to Matthew and Joe at the left; receiving her award from Charity’s star-studded awards ceremony. Dame Esther Rantzen, left; and “Now I’m even more Matthew, 37, who is profoundly deaf and Esmee with her mum and her twin sister Eliza, above uses sign language, describes the grateful for my loyal life-threatening event that prompted him to hearing dog. He went nominate Joe for the award. “It was really hard trying to “It was a dark evening back in September above and beyond the communicate before but 2014,” says Matthew, who lives in Cola gives me confidence. Northampton. “I had just parked my car call of duty” She’s my best friend.” and was waiting for my friend when a man Louise adds: “Esmee feels dressed in dark clothing jumped out from that people are more aware the bushes and tried to break into my car. “This was completely out of character that she’s a deaf person due Joe leapt into the back, barking furiously to for Joe – I don’t think he has ever barked to the identifiable coat that scare the intruder away. like that before – but the intruder was so Cola wears, and as a parent I shocked that he let go of the door and ran now feel more confident for cover. That gave me the opportunity to about my daughter’s future Matthew and make quick our escape. and her ability to become an Joe make a “I was very shaken by the experience, great team independent person.” but now I’m even more grateful for my Esmee’s twin sister Eliza loyal hearing dog Joe. He went above and has also noticed the beyond the call of duty.” difference: “Cola is always there for her no matter Have-a-go Joe what’s going on. I’m quite “It dawned on me that if Joe hadn’t been proud of her. I feel the same there, that man would have got into the sense of accomplishment car. Anything could have happened. I never that she feels. It makes me expected this from my hearing dog – I was happy that she’s happier.” so proud of him. Louise agrees: “Cola has “Since then, my life has changed brought complete joy to completely. If I’m home alone, I now the whole family. She has have the conﬁ dence to take my hearing opened up Esmee’s world. aids out. It is very liberating. I know that She feels so special having Joe will always be listening for me and a hearing dog – it just fills will alert me to any sounds that he is her with confidence. All the trained to respond to – plus he will think issues and problems Esmee on his feet and alert me to any other had before have been important sound. He is my loyal ears resolved now that she has and protector.” Cola. We love her to bits.” 11 Spring 2016 FAVOUR Awards

Winner THE DESMOND WILCOX VOLUNTEER Future hearing dogs are OF THE YEAR AWARD in safe hands with Annette During volunteer Annette Pollock’s 18 years of dedication to Hearing Dogs she has helped to train nearly 50 puppies

TOP LEFT: ANNETTE POLLOCK from Former breeding scheme longer than most so her Dame Esther Epsom has been awarded the supervisor Nicola McLure said: experience is invaluable. Rantzen Desmond Wilcox Volunteer of “I nominated Annette for the Annette says: “It’s very presents Annette with the Year Award in recognition accolade because she rewarding when you hear that her award of her tireless hard work and embodies everything that the dogs have actually passed TOP RIGHT: dedication as a volunteer for makes the perfect volunteer. as fully qualified hearing dogs. Annette with Hearing Dogs. “Annette will happily take on You meet the recipient and one of the Annette, 73, has been a the task of raising litters of some will keep in touch to say many puppies she has helped registered volunteer for the puppies for the Charity, which how their dog is doing. It’s to train Hearing Dogs charity for more is not an easy task, and you very, very satisfying. than 18 years. During that time can just tell how much she “We are only small cogs in she has helped at the births of loves dogs. We simply couldn’t the big wheel. It’s just lovely to more than 60 future hearing continue our life-changing see what hearing dogs can do, dogs and looked after and work without the efforts of and how they can change deaf trained nearly 50 hearing dog such fantastic volunteers, and people’s lives.” puppies in her own home. Annette really is a wonderful The award was presented asset to the Charity.” by Dame Esther Rantzen “It’s just lovely to see how There are more than 1,750 in memory of her TV volunteers working for the producer husband Desmond hearing dogs can change Charity across the UK and Wilcox, who suffered from people’s lives” Annette has been involved hearing loss. 12 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Awards

1 2 3 4

Shining

5 STARS 6 More than 120 guests, including many of our celebrity ambassadors and friends, joined us at the Hearing Dogs Awards 2015. The glamorous event, which celebrates the achievements of deaf people and their hearing dogs as well as our volunteers, was hosted by Dame Esther Rantzen at One Marylebone in London. A special award was also presented to Sainsbury’s – named as our Accessible Company of the Year.

7 Sponsored by

WHO’S WHO: 1. Capital FM’s Pandora Christie 8 with James Crossley aka Gladiator Hunter 2. Actress Stephanie Beacham with hearing dog puppy Rufus 3. ’Allo ’Allo actress Vicki Michele and daughter Louise meet Rory with trainer Kim Milbourn 4. Meg Mathews with Hearing Dog puppy Ronnie 5. Actress Anita Dobson with Hearing Dog puppy Roo 6. Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashleigh and Pudsey with Hearing Dog puppy 9 10 Rosie 7. One Marylebone. This stunning London venue has been chosen again for The Hearing Dogs Awards 2016 8. The winners with our awards host and Hearing Dogs ambassador Dame Esther Rantzen 9. Representatives from Sainsbury’s, winner of our Accessible Company of the Year award 10. The glamorous event saw a host of celebrities arrive on the red carpet 13 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Sponsorship

From cuddly

A very young Indie to and, below, with puppy volunteer puppy socialiser Sue Cooper life-changing hearing dog There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a sponsor pup being transformed into a working hearing dog. Here is Indie’s story…

“In small steps he ndie’s journey to becoming a fully qualified hearing dog starts at just eight weeks old begins learning when he goes to live with Sue Cooper, his about the big volunteer puppy socialiser. In small steps he begins learning about the big wide world wide world and I and how to become a confident young dog. Every other week Indie and Sue attend puppy how to become classes with puppy training instructor, Elin Dobson. First Indie needs to learn the signs for ‘sit’, ‘wait’ a confident and ‘lie down’. He also learns to walk nicely on the young dog” lead. Sue helps him explore different places and environments, such as towns, shops and public transport, to help build his confi dence. Elin monitors their progress over the next 12 months. Puppy training instructor Elin Dobson Soon after Indie’s fi rst birthday Elin decides he teaches Indie some is ready for his advanced training at The Grange. essential signs Sue feels reassured by Indie’s happy and confi dent handover to soundwork trainer Claire McNespiey. For the next 16 weeks Indie spends the day with Claire learning how to nudge for important sounds, and evenings and weekends with his B&B volunteers, the McTavish family. A vital part of Indie’s training is learning to differentiate between a normal sound and a danger signal. Indie learns to drop down to the ground for a danger signal, rather than leading his trainer to the sound. 14 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Lessons with soundwork trainer Claire McNespiey SPONSOR A PUPPY

Victor Victor is a black, get-up-and-go Cocker Spaniel pup with a white chest and paws that look like he’s been dipped in paint. His favourite games are jumping in and out of cardboard boxes and attacking shoelaces. He’s a bit of a show-off in puppy training class. He likes swishing his tail proudly, especially when he gets things right “Everything we learn about – something he’s doing more and more often. Indie helps us to create the Indie with his new family Zara perfect match for him” Zara is a beautiful dark yellow Labrador puppy with bright, Everything we learn about Indie, brown eyes that from volunteers and trainers, helps catch the sunlight. us to create the perfect match for She just lives for fun. him – something that is just as Grab her favourite important for the dog as it is snake toy and she’ll happily join for the deaf person. in a tug of war. She doesn’t really mind whether she wins or loses, as Indie successfully passes long as she has fun. Being a his hearing dog training Labrador, she will also do anything assessments and is ready for food. So, food and fun are to be partnered with making her a fast learner. his new recipient Jo www.hearingdogs.org.uk/puppy Setchﬁ eld from Norfolk. Jo and her family arrive at The Grange and Claire watches Indie slip calmly “Why I sponsor…” and conﬁ dently into the life-changing role he has Audrey Bishop from been preparing for all his Gidea Park, Essex, life. It’s a magical and very sponsored a pup in satisfying moment. memory of a dear friend… “Our family has always loved dogs so after the loss of my husband’s closest friend, it was a simple JO’S STORY decision to set up a direct debit to ALMOST 18 MONTHS on, has Indie will realise I’m deaf and that I’m not Hearing Dogs. made a difference? We hear from Jo… being rude if I don’t hear them. My “My husband Stan met David “I completely lost my hearing six family tell me I’m much happier and a when they were evacuated to years ago, which meant I had to give lot more positive now.” Ipswich in 1939 aged 13. They kept up work; I was devastated. I didn’t So that’s a yes from Jo! What about in touch for 74 years until David want to go out at all, not even to you Indie? Well, there’s no mistaking died in 2013. We decided to the shops. I felt lethargic and didn’t the happy face of a dog who is sponsor a hearing dog puppy want to communicate with anyone. completely fulfilled… as a lasting confirmation of this Indie has totally changed that. He lifelong friendship. has given me back my confidence “Stan passed away last year and and independence. Indie loves the sponsorship continues to be a responding to sounds and always great comfort to me. Jess and makes sure he gets his treat when Aslan, our first two pups, are he tells me that the doorbell has already making a difference and I rung! I can go to the shops with know that our current sponsor pup Indie by my side and I know people Berry will soon be doing the same.”

15 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Get involved Volunteering

Could you help to train a puppy? It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to create exceptional hearing dogs for deaf people and volunteers play a vital role in this process

f the Charity’s 1,750 registered volunteers “These lovely people all have one across the UK, around 208 are currently important thing in common – a great socialising puppies. passion for spending time with dogs” “O It may sound a lot but we still need to find more,” explains volunteering manager Victoria Leedham. For most of their early lives, pups months old, you’ll attend weekly or Victoria is leading a recruitment live with dedicated volunteers who fortnightly training sessions either in drive to find new volunteers by care for and train them on a daily a local hall, town or park. widening the area around some basis, gradually getting them used “Our puppies stay with their of our well-established locations, to the big wide world. “If you live socialisers until they’re ready as well as setting up a brand near our puppy socialising areas, you to move on to the next stage, new puppy satellite area in Tyne may well have seen our volunteers usually at one of our centres in and Wear.” having a great time teaching their Buckinghamshire and Yorkshire. dogs to ‘settle’ in various cafes Here one of our professional trainers and restaurants,” Victoria will polish off the pup’s skills and continues: “Everyone’s different teach him to nudge or tap with a but these lovely people all have paw when he hears one of his one important thing in common important sounds. – a great passion for spending “Puppy socialising is an exciting time with dogs.” and varied role but it can also be challenging at times, so our expert What’s involved? training instructors are always Victoria explains… on hand to provide help and “Once you’re registered and support – whenever and wherever approved you’ll be able to take it is needed.” home one of our gorgeous eight-week-old pups, such View from a happy as Buzz the Cockerpoo for puppy socialiser example. Over the following 14 Clare Coote, who became a puppy to 16 months, he will look to you socialiser just over three years ago, for guidance. In a gradual and agrees: “I have wonderful support – gentle way we would help you help is only a phone call away – and to give him all the obedience my trainer comes to the house and skills training he needs, as regularly to check on how the well as build his confidence out training is going. Being a puppy and about. socialiser has really enhanced my life. “For the first four months, I have become much more confident volunteers follow our step-by- when a hearing dog puppy is with step training guide and attend me. I really enjoy it when people stop You can follow weekly puppy classes. When to talk and I can tell them what these Buzz on Twitter: @Buzzhearingdog the pup has reached a certain clever dogs can do, and how they level, generally around six change deaf people’s lives.” 16 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Get involved Volunteering To get involved, call 01844 348100 or email [email protected]

CAN YOU HELP? We also need volunteers to provide short-term temporary homes for our puppies. Visit FIND OUT MORE ABOUT www.hearingdogs.org. uk/puppysocialising PUPPY SOCIALISING If you would like to find out more and live close to one of the following hubs we would love to hear from you:

Pam and Geoff with one of their former pups Caine

Volunteer puppy socialiser “Hearing Dogs has changed our lives”

PAM AND GEOFF “He is delightful! We HARPER from are hopefully going Devon & Somerset Cambridge, Huntingdon, Cambridge have been to train him right Exeter, Taunton Peterborough puppy socialisers for the way through to Hampshire Cheshire & South more than six years. his partnership. Southampton, Fareham Manchester “We were recently “We would definitely Buckinghamshire Stockport, retired and looking for recommend & Berkshire Macclesfield, something active to do volunteering to others. Reading, High Warrington when we heard the Our time with Hearing Wycombe, Aylesbury, East Yorkshire appeal on our local Dogs has changed our Milton Keynes Harrogate, York, Beverley radio station. We were lives as well as particularly interested changing the lives of Bedfordshire, Newcastle upon because our son is the deaf people who Hertfordshire, Essex Tyne & Northumberland profoundly deaf, and receive these lovely Bedford, Hitchin, St Newcastle, we hadn’t heard of dogs. We couldn’t think Albans, Saffron Walden Blyth, Sunderland Hearing Dogs before.” of a better way to Cambridgeshire Edinburgh Pam and Geoff are spend our retirement.” & Lincolnshire Central Edinburgh now training their seventh puppy, a Email volunteer@ Labrador named Solo. hearingdogs.org.uk Would you like to care for and train a puppy? If you live in or close to any of the locations mentioned above, have a suitable home with a private, secure garden, as well as the time to dedicate to training a puppy on a “We couldn’t think of daily basis, then our volunteering team would love to hear from you. Please call Lisa Meller on 01844 348129 a better way to spend or email [email protected] our retirement” 17 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR You & your dog

Hearing dog trainor Nicci Cross and Beau, a deaf Cocker Spaniel

COMMUNICATION SKILLS Silent orders Hearing dog trainer Nicci Cross explains how you can communicate with your dog if he loses his hearing

DEAFNESS IN DOGS is very common and usually harder on you than it is on your dog. Like humans, some dogs are born deaf due to congenital defects, while others will start to lose their hearing as they get older. Whatever the cause of the hearing loss, there are still lots of ways to communicate with your dog, as Nicci Cross, herself an owner of a deaf dog, explains…

Try using hand signals with 1your dog. Even with dogs that can hear, people usually use hand signals on a regular basis. Hand signals are an easy way to let your dog know what is happening. For example, when you’re ready to take your dog for a walk, take out the leash and is more likely to be startled. For may also help show it to him; when you are ready example, dogs that are able to hear around the home. A to feed him, point to the bowl to eat know there may be a stranger coming flashing disc or collar will help you (although most dogs will smell it into the house when they hear a locate him in the garden if it is dark. first). You can also show he is a knock on the door but deaf dogs ‘good dog’ by giving him a treat don’t. So give your dog a signal when Be patient and extra loving with after showing a hand signal, such someone is coming in, for example, 4your deaf dog. Try not to get as a thumbs-up. ask them to wait in a certain spot in too frustrated or upset when your the hallway so they can see who the dog doesn’t respond to you in the Take control and be attuned to person is and greet them. same way he used to. You need to 2your surroundings. With a deaf treat your dog with extra kindness dog, it is critical you become your Make your dog extra visible, as and compassion. Your dog can and Paul Wilkinson Paul dog’s eyes and ears. You need to be 3well as easy to hear. A bell on will be happy and fulfilled if you extra aware of the environment your dog’s collar can help people find treat him with plenty of love, patience

Photos: around you. Appreciate that your dog him if he escapes or runs outside. It and understanding. 18 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Beau is able to respond BELLS, BALLS AND BEAU to obedience commands using sign language COCKER SPANIEL BEAU was methods we use for separation born deaf. Her hearing was tested training with a dog that has at eight weeks because she normal hearing. I also bought wasn’t responding normally to her a canvas den that she feels sounds and she was behaving safe in, so she can retreat to it in an unusual way. The test if ever she feels insecure. I take showed she had been born totally this everywhere we go so that deaf in both ears, ruling out any her secure space, and the hopes of a career as an assistance routine when I leave, are the dog. But her outgoing character same wherever we are.“ and loving nature meant that with "Because Beau can’t hear careful handling and thoughtful people coming, she could easily training she could grow into a be startled or frightened if wonderful dog. someone touches her Beau found her permanent unexpectedly, especially if she’s NICCI AND BEAU home with experienced hearing asleep. So I made sure that RECOMMEND dog trainer Nicci Cross. Nicci whenever she was woken up knew it wouldn’t be easy but the EZYDOG ADVENTURE LIGHTS challenge appealed to her. Visible up to three miles away “I began teaching Beau basic www.ezydog.co.uk/products/ “It can be adventure-lights obedience commands using sign language,” she explains. challenging owning “She settled in really well at home and befriended my Springer a deaf dog but Beau’s Spaniel, Bruno. Being deaf makes deafness has made Beau very tactile and she quickly developed her own awareness her who she is” strategies. She likes to sleep with one paw touching me, or cuddled she always had a positive up to Bruno, so she knows experience. Now she is always immediately if we move. happy to be woken and usually DOG COLLAR BELLS “My main concern was that expects a cuddle at the very least. www.amazon.co.uk she’d become distressed if “It can be challenging owning she suddenly felt she was alone. a deaf dog but Beau’s deafness To overcome this I adopted the has made her who she is. She has routine of always giving her a always been very outgoing and visual cue whenever I left the shows no fear. This has given me room. Having clear visual cues many heart-stopping moments helped her to understand what throughout our training process. to expect and to feel secure Putting a bell on her collar has and comfortable on her own. been a godsend. She was such BELL WITH This is very different to the an escape artist as a young pup. MAGNETIC SILENCER I thought my garden was www.justdogsshop.co.uk completely puppy-proof, but With Nicci's help, Beau took every opportunity to Beau has become a prove otherwise – there were conﬁ dent, settled dog many times when I had to search my village in the middle of the night in my pyjamas listening out for her collar bell. “Beau is now three years old and has become a very settled but active dog – much like any other happy Spaniel. To many FOR FIRST HAND EXPERIENCES, people’s surprise I can also allow GREAT ADVICE AND TIPS ON her off the lead for walks. With OWNING A DEAF DOG: Beau a tennis ball is the key to www.dfordog.co.uk her soul and helps to keep her www.deafdognetwork.org.uk focused on me at all times.” www.deafdogs.org

19 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Awareness

DID YOU KNOW? About 2,500 new cases of acoustic neuroma are diagnosed each year Growing Source: National Organisation for Rare Disorders; rarediseases.org

painsAcoustic neuromas are rare but can cause a variety of distressing symptoms, including hearing loss. A groundbreaking study sheds new light on how they can damage your inner ear

n acoustic nerve leading from your inner ear to the eighth cranial nerve directly neuroma, your brain. The tumours are rare, inﬂ uences your balance and hearing, also known affecting just one in 100,000 people, pressure on it can cause symptoms as a vestibular but they can cause hearing loss and such as hearing loss, ringing in your schwannoma, tinnitus, make you feel dizzy and ear and unsteadiness. is a tumour affect your balance. Although slow-growing, acoustic that develops The tumour is non-cancerous and neuromas can eventually become large on the main usually slow-growing, but because enough to press against neighbouring cranial nerves. In about 95% of cases, the cause of A acoustic neuromas is unknown but “Our findings suggest there may be a research has looked at possible links pharmacologic way to maintain hearing in to prior exposure to radiation in the head and neck area, or prolonged and some patients with vestibular schwannoma” sustained exposure to loud noises. More 20 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Awareness

“More research is ACOUSTIC NEUROMA: EXPLAINED under way to try SYMPTOMS In about 90% of cases, the initial Radiation therapy to identify causes symptom is usually gradual hearing (Radiosurgery or Radiotherapy) and risk factors” loss in one ear. As hearing gets Radiotherapy involves using worse it also tends to become carefully controlled doses of distorted and there may also be radiation to damage cells within research is under way to try to identify ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or a the acoustic neuroma and stop it specifi c causes and risk factors. feeling of fullness. from growing. While the tumour is growing it Radiosurgery is a specialised Toxic secretions can lead to balance problems and form of radiotherapy that precisely In December a research team from later symptoms can include targets the acoustic neuroma, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infi rmary headaches and facial numbness. limiting damage to surrounding investigating vestibular schwannomas About 5% of acoustic neuromas nerves and tissue. Radiation discovered that in some cases damage are caused by a hereditary therapy won’t remove the tumour, to the inner ear was caused not by condition called neurofibromatosis but it can result in shrinkage over pressure on the auditory nerve but by type II. People with this type of time and it is often the preferred toxic secretions from the tumour. acoustic neuroma are usually option for treating deep-seated This helps to explain why some younger and may also get other tumours that may be difficult to tumours cause hearing loss even though types of neuromas. reach surgically. they are not large enough to compress nearby structures. TREATMENT Microsurgery “What’s written in textbooks is that The course of treatment will Microsurgery allows physicians to these tumours cause hearing loss by depend on the size of the tumour, perform surgery on very small growing to the point of compressing its location and the symptoms. body parts. In almost all cases the the auditory nerve,” said senior author tumour can be completely Konstantina M Stankovic, an otologic Wait and watch removed and no further treatment surgeon and researcher at Massachusetts Research has shown that two in will be needed. Several surgical Eye and Ear. three small tumours (less than techniques are used depending on “We knew that it couldn’t be as simple 1.5cm) do not grow, and therefore the size of the tumour, its location as that, because there are large tumours may not need to be treated. If and whether the hearing in the that do not cause hearing loss and little there are few symptoms and the affected ear is still good. Even ones that do.” tumour is small or growing at a when the acoustic neuroma has slow rate it may just be carefully been removed completely, it could Common factor monitored over a period of time. grow back again, though this is Within the toxic molecules, scientists This generally means having an very rare. Most surgeons identifi ed TNFa, a compound that has MRI or CT scan once every one recommend having one or two been identifi ed in other forms of to two years. MRI scans after surgery. hearing loss. This offers hope to sufferers because there are known ways to inhibit the body’s production of TNFa. An acoustic “Our fi ndings suggest there may neuroma is be a pharmacologic way to maintain a tumour that hearing in some patients with vestibular forms on the eighth cranial schwannoma,” said Dr Stankovic. nerve that runs from the Research into the causes of acoustic inner ear to the neuromas continues. For more brain and is information please go to responsible for hearing www.bana-uk.com and balance Sources: British Acoustic Neuroma Association (BANA); and Action on

Hearing Loss; Credit: Blausen.com staff. “Blausen gallery 2014”. Wikiversity Journal of Medicine www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk 21 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Get involved Gifts in Wills To get involved, call 01844 348133 or email [email protected]

Diane and Keith Pickford wanted to be sure that the Charity’s work could continue

Gifts in Wills We just knew that we wanted to help people Diane and Keith Pickford are supporters of Hearing Dogs. “They explain why they have decided to leave a gift in their Wills itting down with Diane and an amazing community. We’ve made Over half of the hearing dogs we Keith Pickford soon brings a so many friends through the Charity, train are thanks” to gifts that have smile to your face. They are so we felt we wanted to give been left in Wills, so they are a very clearly content in their something back.” important source of funding for the retirement, finishing each Their heads also played a part in Charity. And as deafness is on the S other’s sentences, with their two the decision. Keith continues: “We have increase, demand for our hearing dogs dogs winding around their legs. You no immediate family, so our estate is is only going to grow. wouldn’t know it, as she can lipread split between a few charities, with one Diane sums it up. “Hearing Dogs and speaks so well, but Diane has been being Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. really helps deaf people. I know from profoundly deaf since contracting I was surprised when I found out experience how isolating and frustrating meningitis aged four. Hearing Dogs is supported entirely by deafness can be. So we wanted to do public donations, so we thought a gift something to help too. Helping people Close to the heart in our Wills would help, especially as it and giving something back – that’s The couple has a strong personal enables them to plan for the future.” what it’s all about really, isn’t it?” connection with the Charity and they regularly volunteer to garden at our training centre in Buckinghamshire. That’s one of the reasons why, when THANK YOU! they drew up their Wills, they decided to include Hearing Dogs. WE’D LIKE TO SAY THANK YOU TO THE PICKFORDS and the many “From the breeding programme, the other kind people who leave a gift in their Wills to Hearing Dogs each training and the matching with deaf year. If you’d like to know more about including Hearing Dogs in your people to the ongoing support, we Will, please get in touch with Steve Heyes on 01844 348133 just love everything that Hearing or email [email protected] Dogs does,” says Diane. “And it’s 22 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Contact us! Send all your funny captions, stories and pictures to: kids [email protected] corner Smartdog! Make a stylish bandana for your dog You’ll need Sheet of greaseproof FIDO or tracing paper Pen or pencil FACTS Pinking shears/scissors Fabric: minimum size 25cm x 20cm a neat edge and stop collar back through the In ancient China, A few pins it fraying). finished bandana and people used to keep Needle and cotton 4. Remove the pins you’ve made your dog a warm by putting (approx 1m) and pattern. Place very stylish accessory. dogs up their sleeves Your dog’s collar your fabric right side This size will fit most dogs. down. Lay the collar Dalmatians are often What to do flat along the top edge Blue loves deaf – 30% of them 1. Using the pen and and fold the top edge her bandana cannot hear in either greaseproof paper, over it so the corners one or two ears trace the bandana meet (see diagram). template from this page. 5. Pin together along A typical dog has the 2. Cut out this shape the join and then slide the same brain aptitude to make your bandana collar out. level as a toddler. paper pattern. 6. Thread your needle, tie Dogs can understand 3. Pin the pattern onto a knot at the end of the about 250 words and your fabric and cut cotton and sew along the count up to five round it with the join. Two rows of stitches pinking shears (these will make it stronger. A dog’s sense of zigzag scissors make Remove the pins. Slide the hearing is over 10 times stronger than a human’s

FANTASTIC FUNDRAISERS 7th Hutton Brownies raised £422 LITTLEHAMPTON abseiled in the summer term and hope to raise River Beach, a huge but most of the enough to sponsor a 800-pupil primary fundraising has puppy from September. school, has raised £10k been from the to sponsor a hearing pupils themselves. HUTTON dog puppy named Anya. 7th Hutton Brownies The children wanted to S O U T H A M P T O N raised £422 for Hearing raise funds to help a Pupils at Springwell Dogs after a visit and deaf child and are School (for children talk by Sophie Biebuyck looking forward to news with special educational with her hearing dog of Anya’s partnership in needs) have chosen Rusty. Sophie says: the summer. It was the Hearing Dogs as their “It’s an amazing effort initiative of Johnan Charity of the Year. by a small group Bannier, teacher of the They’ve already raised of youngsters – I deaf. Some of the staff £5k during their first was overwhelmed.” Bandana template Springwell School wants to sponsor a puppy Get involved The Great British Dog Walk To find out more, call 01844 348135 or visit www.greatbritishdogwalk.org

The Great British Dog Walk Join us for this fantastic family event at a National Trust site near you! BOOK THE GREAT British Dog Walk is a fun sites and are free for kids and dogs! event that takes place all across the UK Adults pay just £10. YOUR at various times of the year depending All venues offer two routes, either 3km PLACE on where you are. The events are held at or 6–8km. For further information go to Visit www.great britishdogwalk.org for beautiful dog-friendly National Trust www.greatbritishdogwalk.org details of each walk, including distance, time and facilities 2016 EVENTS MORE THAN Find a local event! Just visit the website for more details and to book your place A WALK Rhossili Wimpole Hall Here are just some of the SWANSEA, ARRINGTON, things you can look forward WALES CAMBRIDGESHIRE to during one of our events 2 APRIL 1 MAY Meet a hearing dog Get to know some of our amazing hearing dogs and find out how they change Kedleston Hall Pollok the lives of deaf people. DERBY, DERBYSHIRE Country Park 10 APRIL Kids’ educational activities GLASGOW, Our fun activity booklet will SCOTLAND help children learn about 1 MAY deaf awareness, explore the world of dogs, and have fun with nature. East Head Fountains Abbey WEST WITTERING, & Studley Royal Spot the dog WEST SUSSEX Enjoy meeting fellow 10 APRIL Water Garden RIPON, YORKSHIRE dog lovers and spot lots 7 MAY of different dog breeds along the walk. Free gift Haddo House Killerton Preregistered walkers & Country Park House will be presented with a ABERDEEN, EXETER, DEVON limited edition Great SCOTLAND 7 MAY British Dog Walk bandana 16 APRIL for their dog to wear (or see p23 and make your own!).

Don’t forget you can set Hughenden Minnowburn up a JustGiving page and Manor & Lagan Valley BELFAST, ask your friends and family HIGH WYCOMBE, NORTHERN IRELAND to sponsor you or your dog. BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 17 APRIL 14 MAY

24 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Get involved The Great British Dog Walk

More than 2,250 people took part in walks last year Making a difference Find out how one of our trained puppies helped change the life of Eva and her entire family

WHEN 11-YEAR-OLD Eva from Sheffield was born six weeks prematurely by emergency Caesarean section, she wasn’t breathing, but a team of doctors worked tirelessly until she was able to breathe on her own. Due to this traumatic start, Eva has suffered severe hearing Stowe loss from birth. Eva’s mum BUCKINGHAM, Nichola said: “I felt heartbroken. BUCKINGHAMSHIRE I felt as though I couldn’t do 15 MAY anything to help her. Eva used the roof. She is now an to have such trouble sleeping, independent 11-year-old just and would often sleepwalk. like all her friends. She really struggled with “The friendship between Eva Ickworth Park confidence and found it hard and Gwinie is beautiful. Gwinie BURY ST EDMUNDS, to make friends. helps us understand what Eva SUFFOLK But then Gwinie entered is going through. She has 22 MAY their lives and changed things. brightened up our future as a “Gwinie is truly amazing,” says family, and we all work together Nichola. “Eva now feels safe, now. Having Gwinie has brought and her confidence is through us closer together.” Foxbury Common NEW FOREST “Gwinie has (NEAR WEST WELLOW), HANTS brightened up our 22 MAY future and we all Osterley Park & House work together now” WEST LONDON 4 JUNE

Eva and Gwinie have formed a beautiful Hill of Tarvit friendship FIFE, SCOTLAND 5 JUNE

25 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Get involved Volunteering Spreading the word Discover why volunteering to speak out could be a boost for both the Charity and your conﬁ dence

ublic speaking is a role you associate with confident and outgoing people, but it may surprise you to learn that many volunteers say SIX FACTS they’ve only discovered their confidence since becoming a speaker ABOUT for a cause they feel passionate about. We spoke to some of our volunteer speakers to find out what SPEAKERS encouraged them to have a go, despite their nerves, and what they’ve gained Pfrom the experience. Registered speakers are our community ambassadors… Registered speakers 1 spread the word to groups and organisations in their area, following Volunteer speaker guidelines and principles set by the Charity. Sarah Hennessy We have nearly 300 volunteer speakers 2 SARAH BECAME interested in across the UK. Hearing Dogs for Deaf People “I wanted something There are no qualiﬁ cations when she started learning British 3 or requirements for this Sign Language. She was encouraged to increase my role, just willingness and a to have an understanding of Deaf bit of free time. conﬁ dence and this culture and learn more about the We ask speakers to impact of deafness on people’s lives. was the role to do it” 4 provide feedback from “After a couple of years of being a each talk they give, collection-tin coordinator and Sarah Hennessy wanted to creating a small amount share her passion for participating in sponsored walk of admin work. Hearing Dogs events, I felt that I wanted to The Charity provides become more involved,” says Sarah. 5 training and resources “Speaking in public was never to aid you in your talks. something that was natural for me Speakers should be but I thought that speaking on behalf 6 able to give at least six of the Charity was something I talks per year. could participate in. I’ve met some really interesting people and it’s important that I can share my WANT TO FIND passion for Hearing Dogs. “You don’t need a large network OUT MORE? of contacts. I send out emails to Our speakers become colleagues and friends telling them ambassadors for Hearing Dogs. about Hearing Dogs for Deaf People Not only is the time they give and what I do for them. The fantastic invaluable, their words are too; what they say could shape thing about doing these talks is the someone’s opinion, leading to feedback you receive afterwards. life-changing donations. “I’ve had to increase my IT skills. If you are interested in I have to use my laptop and learning more, or joining our projector to display films, team of speakers, we would love which was something I to hear from you. Email had never done before, volunteer@hearing dogs.org.uk so it’s another or call Lisa on 01844 348129. string to my bow!”

26 FAVOUR Spring 2016 BOOK Get involved Volunteering A SPEAKER Contact Jess on 01844 348135 or email speaker@ Volunteer speaker hearingdogs.org.uk Mike Coote

LIKE SOME of our speakers, Mike has a professional speaking background. After learning about Hearing Dogs when his wife Clare became a puppy socialiser, he saw it as a natural role to take on. Although he has the skills and experience from speaking in business and for other charities, he says he has still gained a lot from being a speaker for Hearing Dogs. “I have met some really interesting people, as well as Charity staff and volunteers – many of whom are now friends. I’ve learnt to be adaptable as often things don’t go to plan! And that’s a useful and valuable life skill. “Sometimes I’m contacted directly by someone wanting to organise a talk for their group but I also get requests Mike Coote has enjoyed referred via Hearing Dogs’ community meeting new people fundraising managers (CFMs). “The talks are always different as I try to tailor each to the audience and the time available. Afterwards I complete a “I have met some really interesting people, talk form to give the Charity feedback and ensure the talk organiser receives as well as Charity staff and volunteers – a follow-up message.” many of whom are now friends”

“WE’VE BONDED OVER A COMMON CAUSE”

Being a speaker for Hearing Dogs doesn’t have to be an individual volunteering role. The North Hampshire and Surrey Borders Fundraising Group includes three volunteer speakers – Malcolm, Irene and Tania – and it’s a great example of how mutually interested people have bonded and become friends. One of the trio, Malcolm Pickett, says: “My wife Anne has a hearing dog called Tegan who has given her the confidence to come with me to talks when she can, and everyone enjoys that. ” Irene Rich became a volunteer speaker after early retirement. “I wanted to find something useful to do,” she explains. “As I suffer from hearing loss Malcolm, centre, with Tania, right, and I decided to register as a volunteer for Hearing Dogs Malcolm’s wife Anne, left. Right: Irene for Deaf People. “I had to familiarise myself with the workings of a projector. I also had to become more organised – although not everyone would agree I have succeeded!” Tania Leman says the role has boosted her confidence. “I am now willing to talk to anyone or any group about this amazing charity, when previously I would never stand up and talk to a group. I’d encourage anyone to get involved because it improves your confidence and you get so much satisfaction knowing you’ve informed people about the work Hearing Dogs does.”

27 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Ask the experts

Questions about your dog’s welfare THIS ISSUE’S EXPERT Jo Gray is Head of Quality Assurance and Welfare at Ask the Hearing Dogs for experts Deaf People.

Your vet will take a closer look inside your dog’s ear to try to identify what the problem is

How can I tell if my dog 2. Your dog turns the wrong way How will my vet is losing his hearing? when you call him diagnose deafness? Q 3. Your dog does not respond to Q As our dogs age, they sometimes outside stimuli, such as the doorbell Your vet will examine your dog’s lose their hearing. It can sneak up ringing or other dogs barking ear canal for wax accumulation, on you (and your pup) suddenly and 4. Your dog shows no response or infections, inﬂ ammation, injury it can be hard to tell if your dog’s seems confused when given familiar or foreign objects. The deﬁ nitive hearing is impaired or something vocal commands test for hearing in pets is the so- else is happening. You should 5. Your dog barks excessively called Brainstem Auditory Evoked consider hearing loss if: 6. Your dog paws or rubs his ears or Response (BAER) test. During the 1. Your dog doesn’t know you’re in appears to have itchy, painful ears. procedure, small electrodes are the room until you physically touch If you see any of the above signs, placed under the skin of a dog’s him or he sees you you should take your dog to the vet. scalp to measure the electrical 28 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Ask the experts Ask the experts

“Your pet can still have a good quality of life if he is deaf… Be patient and use rewards that your dog really values”

activity in the brain. With normal hearing, electrical spikes are seen when a sound is made beside the should keep your dog safely on by pigment-producing cells, ear. This test provides a good, an extending lead while outside known as ‘melanocytes’. If the objective way of checking the and teach him hand signals so genes to produce these cells are hearing in one or both ears. that you can communicate with absent, a white coat and blue eyes him. Be patient and use rewards are the consequence. Hearing is What are the causes of that your dog really values. made possible through a layer of temporary hearing loss? Hearing impaired dogs can still specialised cells in the inner ear. Q live a long fulﬁ lled life. These ‘hearing’ cells originate from Temporary hearing loss can be the same stem cells as pigment- caused by a wax build-up in your What causes genetic producing cells. Therefore if an dog’s ear canals. This is especially deafness in dogs? animal has no pigment in its body, common in dogs with narrow ear Q it’s likely that it will also be deﬁ cient canals, such as poodles. Dogs Coat colour and the colour of the in the specialised ‘hearing’ cells, with lots of hair around their ears back of the eye are both caused resulting in deafness. have a tendency to have their ear canals blocked by hair, which collects wax and eventually forms a plug. Or a foreign object in a NEW TIPS dog’s ear canal can also impede Actress Linda Robson’s the ability to hear. French Bulldog Ernie was born deaf. Linda Can temporary deafness and Ernie recently be improved or reversed? visited The Grange for Q a training session with Just as in humans, only temporary Tom Green. deafness can be reversed. If it’s due Linda says: “I have to a build-up of wax, your vet may been given so many have you clean his ears daily with tips! I think it’s amazing a prescription wash. If the hearing what you do, and loss is caused by a build-up of hair, Hearing Dogs really is a vet or professional dog groomer a wonderful charity. I can remove it. Infections that cause hope to return soon.” hearing loss should be treated with appropriate medication. Linda and Ernie with trainer Tom Green What causes permanent Q hearing loss? Permanent hearing loss can be POPULAR DOG BREEDS PRONE caused by old age, drug toxicity, TO GENETIC DEAFNESS INCLUDE injury or untreated ear infections. A dog can also be born without Border Collie English Setter the ability to hear, because of a Bulldog breeds Jack Russell Terrier genetic or anatomical problem. Dalmatian Harlequin Great Dane Permanent hearing loss cannot TURN TO PAGE 18 for our top tips on training be reversed. a deaf dog with hearing dog trainer Nicci Your pet can still have a good Cross and her deaf Spaniel Beau. quality of life if he is deaf. You 29 www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2016 FAVOUR Celebrity ambassador Paws forPresenter Angellica coffee… Bell shares her biggest TV challenge, as well as her experience with the Charity’s Let’s Hear It campaign…

re you a tea or a if I had to choose, it would be a loose the cold! The experience changed me and coffee person? leaf Earl Grey as it reminds me of my gran. I realised I could overcome any challenge Neither! I don’t really if I focused – I had to face many fears and drink tea or coffee so You have a degree in Politics. was completely out of my comfort zone. I would probably go How did you get into TV? for some obscure By chance! I was temping at the BBC Last year you became an ambassador herbal tea. However, and heard they were looking for CBBC for Hearing Dogs’ Let’s Hear It presenters. I kind of edged my way in, campaign – an educational resource as well as being aided by some inside for schools including a video teaching A information and advice. I’ve always been the alphabet in British Sign Language Angellica has met many adorable dogs chatty, which helped me in my audition! (BSL). Was this your first experience because of her work of learning sign language? Has your degree influenced any of Yes, it was my first experience learning to your television jobs? sign and it was fascinating to see how BSL I did present a show called Election works and allows people to communicate. alongside Jonathan Dimbleby, which It was a privilege to be part of it. focused on empowering young people. Whether or not we study it, politics Have you or someone close to you influences all of us. ever experienced hearing loss? Nobody close to me has experienced Following your early career on hearing loss and neither have I myself, CBBC you are probably best but it’s important to be aware of how known for being a presenter on different people live their lives and the The One Show. What do you enjoy sacrifices they make, as we never know most about your job? what lies ahead for any of us. I love being part of The One Show team. I get to meet Have you ever had a dog of your own? amazing, inspiring people I’ve never owned a dog but I’ve met many who are given a chance to adorable dogs in my line of work. tell their story. The charity’s Great British Dog Walk Back in 2011 you took part in ITV’s events take place between March and most challenging snow-covered reality June. Who would you most like to go series 71 Degrees North and made it all on a fantasy dog walk with and why? the way to the final. What did you learn If it’s fantasy, maybe Snoopy! I used to from this incredible experience? watch that show when I was little. The Being part of that show was the hardest Queen and her corgis would be fun as thing I’ve ever done. My other half and an there’s bound to be a stupendous executive at ITV persuaded me to take afternoon tea for one after the walk! part after I said no. I don’t swim and I hate Good luck to everyone taking part.

30 FAVOUR Spring 2016 www.hearingdogs.org.uk “It’s important to be aware of how different people live their lives and the sacrifices they make, as we never know what lies ahead for any of us”

Angellica: Close-up Angellica Bell is an award-winning TV presenter. In 2000 she made her debut on CBBC where she stayed for just over six years. She has since presented Weekend Kitchen with Waitrose on Channel 4, Police Interceptors on Channel 5, is a regular face on The One Show on BBC1 – often covering as main host – and voices a BBC daytime show called Family Finders. Angellica recently embarked on a BBC Sport Relief challenge ‘Hell on High Seas’ where she sailed around the British Isles. She likes to keep active and has started to learn to swim. Angellica and her husband, presenter Michael Underwood, have two children.