Dogs for Better Lives (DBL) client Laurel has had three unique gifts in her life, each bearing four paws.
Laurel and Fiddler pose together on the couch
Laurel recently celebrated her first year with Home Hearing Dog Fiddler, who is her third Hearing Assistance Dog from DBL. Each Hearing Dog she has received from DBL has marked a unique chapter in her life, filled with newfound security and heartwarming memories.
Fiddler, a lively and affectionate Labrador, has brought a new dynamic to Laurel’s life, continuing the legacy of his predecessors, Shaymus and Ravioli, in helping her achieve greater independence.
Unique Bonds and Different Styles
Laurel’s journey with DBL began with Certified Hearing Dog Shaymus, a miniature Corgi Shepherd mix who found himself in the shelter and was hand-picked by DBL staff for training in our Hearing Assistance Dog Program. Shaymus had a calm and gentle demeanor, often herding Laurel to bed and providing quiet yet focused alerts in public. He even had a knack for diffusing household tensions by nudging between Laurel and her husband during spats.
Certified Hearing Dog Ravi is now retired, but still loves to help Fiddler alert Laurel to sounds.
Next came Ravioli, a Shih Tzu mix from the shelter, known for his intelligence and playful nature. Ravioli not only mastered basic sound alerts but also taught himself to alert Laurel to the refrigerator door alarm and microwave beeps. Now at 16, Ravioli enjoys a well-deserved retirement, though he still plays a role in helping Laurel alongside Fiddler.
DBL Field Representative, Jess, found this to be adorable at their one-year follow-up.
“Ravioli follows closely behind Fiddler to get a treat with each sound, it’s quite a cute sight,” Jess recalled.
Fiddler, unlike his predecessors, is not certified for public places but excels in sound work at home. His energetic and happy personality contrasts with the mellow nature of Shaymus and Ravioli. Fiddler’s playful energy and love for everyone has brought a fresh wave of joy and laughter into Laurel’s life.
Meeting Fiddler
Initially, Laurel had reservations about bringing a large dog like Fiddler into her small home and yard. Having always had smaller Hearing Assistance Dogs, she was unsure how a Labrador would fit into her lifestyle. However, her trust in DBL’s judgment led her to accept Fiddler, and from the moment she and Fiddler met, she was smitten.
“I got a lot of help from DBL and education about Labs, and I could see why Labs are so popular,” stated Laurel.
Over time, Fiddler’s initial challenges with distractions during walks were addressed with techniques taught by DBL, leading to a calm and focused partnership.
Transformative Impact of Hearing Dogs
Laurel and Fiddler
The presence of Hearing Dogs has profoundly changed Laurel’s life. Beyond the practical benefits of alerting her to important sounds, her dogs have brought immeasurable joy and social connections.
“I laugh a lot!” Laurel shares, recounting the playful antics of Fiddler and the affectionate rivalry with Ravioli.
Living in a neighborhood filled with dogs, Laurel often finds herself meeting familiar faces during her walks, forming bonds with other dog owners and enjoying the community spirit.
Fiddler’s keen senses provide Laurel with a sense of calm and security.
“I’m calmer knowing that noise will be detected by Fiddler,” she says, recalling the anxiety of not knowing the source of sounds when she had partial hearing. “I would hear a noise and wonder, what was that?! Where’s it coming from? I couldn’t relax. Now, I have confidence that Fiddler will alert me,” said Laurel.
In keeping up with Fiddler’s exercise needs, Laurel has also had some unexpected health benefits. Her osteopenia, a condition that weakens bones, has seen significant improvement thanks to the regular walks. “I had a dexa scan and the result was a significant increase in bone density. For a senior such as myself, age 77, that’s GREAT news,” said Laurel.
Life with Hearing Assistance Dogs
Hearing Dog Fiddler at his graduation photo shoot at Dogs for Better Lives
Laurel’s experience with her Hearing Assistance Dogs has not only enriched her life but also helped raise awareness about the capabilities and importance of these amazing dogs. Demonstrating Shaymus’s skills at family reunions opened her relatives’ eyes to the reality of her hearing loss and the incredible support Hearing Dogs provide.
“Growing up, I was so good at bluffing about my hearing loss. Introducing Shaymus felt like I was finally being open about being a Deaf person.”
Now, Laurel continues to educate people about the distinctions between certified and non-certified Hearing Dogs, sharing her journey with Fiddler.
Fiddler’s playful nature and dedication to his role have solidified his place in Laurel’s heart and home. “He’s protective of Ravi. Like when Ravi is accidentally locked out, or stuck in a room because the door closed, Fiddler will notify me,” said Laurel. From nudging Ravioli to reminding Laurel of his needs, Fiddler keeps everyone safer at home.
As Laurel reflects on her journey with her Hearing Dogs, she feels immense gratitude for the independence, confidence, and joy they have brought into her life.
Fiddler’s journey with Laurel is a testament to the transformative power of Hearing Dogs, showcasing how each dog’s unique personality and skills can enhance the lives of those they serve. From Shaymus’s gentle guidance to Ravioli’s sharp intelligence and Fiddler’s playful energy, each dog has left an indelible mark on Laurel’s life, helping her navigate the world with confidence and joy.
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.
