From the moment Donna heard about Jetty, she knew he was special. Before he even arrived at her home in Arizona, she was already in love. And when they finally met in person, that love only grew stronger. A sleek, intelligent black Labrador, Jetty wasn’t just a dog—he was Donna’s Certified Hearing Dog- ready to help her live life more independently.
Donna, had been living with her adult daughter, grandchildren, and four cats, having spent years adapting to her fading hearing. But with Jetty by her side, life became easier, safer, and more independent. Jetty quickly settled into his new home, seamlessly integrating into the family and flawlessly performing his job of alerting Donna to the sounds she couldn’t hear—doorbells, alarms, timers, and even her name being called. More than just a hearing dog, Jetty became her constant companion, bringing confidence and peace of mind.
A Year of Growth and Adventure
Donna and Jetty during their placement week
One year later, Donna and Jetty’s bond is stronger than ever. Their journey together has been filled with unforgettable moments, but perhaps the most extraordinary was their international adventure to Spain. When Donna’s grandson was invited to train with Barcelona’s prestigious football club, she knew she couldn’t miss the opportunity to support him. But traveling internationally is a big endeavor—especially with a Service Dog.
Would Jetty handle the long flights? Would they face challenges navigating foreign airports, hotels, and restaurants? Donna had faith in Jetty, and as it turned out, Jetty was more prepared than she ever imagined.
Jetty, the World Traveler
The journey began with a red-eye flight from Arizona to Atlanta. Jetty, as always, took everything in stride. Donna had planned ahead, bringing his blanket for comfort, and he settled in calmly at her feet. When they landed, they faced an unexpected six-hour delay before their connecting flight to New York. While travel delays can be frustrating, Jetty’s presence made everything easier. He stayed by Donna’s side, offering quiet reassurance, and even brought smiles to the weary airport staff and fellow travelers.
However, their trip took another unexpected turn when they missed their connection to Spain. Donna and Jetty were required to stay in New York for two nights before continuing to Barcelona. The sudden change of plans didn’t phase Jetty—he adapted beautifully. Even when faced with a snowy New York winter, he remained composed. While he wasn’t a fan of the cold, he took his walks with curiosity, carefully choosing dry ground whenever possible.
Jetty took travel delays in stride, settling in to rest on his blanket while he and Donna waited.
By the time they finally boarded their flight to Spain, Donna and Jetty were exhausted but ready for the next leg of their adventure. Thanks to priority boarding, they were upgraded to first class, and Jetty had his own space to settle in comfortably. Despite the seven-hour flight, he remained calm, sleeping at Donna’s feet and adjusting only to reposition himself. Donna came prepared in case of long delays, but Jetty waited patiently until they arrived at their destination to relieve himself.
Exploring Barcelona Together
Stepping off the plane in Barcelona, Jetty was alert but relaxed, adjusting to his new surroundings with ease. After collecting their luggage, Donna took him outside to find grass. Jetty took his time sniffing—adjusting to the new smells of a foreign country—before finally relieving himself. Then, they were off to the hotel, where Donna had pre-arranged accommodations that accepted Service Dogs.
Each day in Barcelona was a new adventure. Donna and Jetty walked up to 18,000 steps a day, exploring the historic streets, bustling markets, and scenic plazas. Whether they were navigating crowded train stations or enjoying quiet café patios, Jetty remained focused, responding to Donna’s cues with perfect precision.
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the beach. Donna had discovered on a previous trip to California that Jetty loved the sand, and Barcelona was no different. His tail wagged with excitement as he walked along the shore, taking in the salty breeze. But Donna, always mindful of his safety, kept their visit short—unlike the U.S., many dogs in Barcelona are off-leash on the beach, and she wanted to ensure Jetty remained undistracted.
Jetty and Donna explore the beaches of Barcelona
But the real reason for their trip was her grandson’s soccer matches, and Jetty was right there cheering him on in his own way. Sitting calmly beside Donna in the stands, he ignored the noise and excitement of the game, proving once again that he was trained for any situation.
A Journey of Confidence and Trust
Traveling internationally with a Service Dog can be stressful, but for Donna, Jetty made all the difference. “He acted like he knew exactly what he was doing,” she recalled. Whether it was navigating new cities, handling delays, or adapting to different modes of transportation, Jetty’s training prepared him for it all. Even when standing in crowded trains or waiting patiently in unfamiliar places, he never once appeared anxious. Instead, he simply focused on Donna, ready to assist whenever needed.
Their return journey was just as smooth, with Jetty once again proving his adaptability. On the final leg of the trip—a red-eye flight back to Phoenix—Jetty had to stay under the seat in front of Donna. He curled up quietly on his blanket. The passengers next to her were amazed—by the time they landed, they admitted they hadn’t even realized a dog was on board.
A Daily Difference at Home
Back in Arizona, Jetty continues to be Donna’s rock. He has even taught himself new skills, like alerting her when a car pulls into the driveway or reminding her about her work breaks.
“He has restored my confidence and independence,” she says. “I don’t have to worry about missing someone at the door or an important sound while I’m working. Jetty is always there for me.”
In fact, Donna and Jetty recently moved into their own place. Donna is thrilled to be living independently again.
Beyond his work, Jetty enjoys life’s simple pleasures—morning walks, sunbathing in the Arizona warmth, and playing with his favorite toys. He’s a perfect balance of devoted Service Dog and playful companion, always ready to work when needed but equally eager to relax and enjoy time with his family.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Jetty celebrated his 2nd birthday in style in 2024
Donna is deeply grateful to everyone who played a role in Jetty’s journey—his Puppy Raisers, Trainers, and the Donors who made his placement possible. She even reached out to Jetty’s Puppy Raiser to share updates and express her gratitude.
“I would want the donors to know they are truly making a difference in my life,” Donna shared. “Because of Jetty, I’m not limited in what I can do. He has given me confidence and a sense of security that I never thought I would have again.”
Jetty is so much more than a Hearing Assistance Dog for Donna. He is her partner, her protector, and her best friend. Whether at home, in a bustling airport, or walking along the beaches of Barcelona, one thing is certain—wherever Donna goes, Jetty will be right by her side.
Would you or someone you care about benefit from a Hearing Assistance Dog? Visit dogsforbetterlives.org/hearing-dogs to learn more about their work, and apply.
