Four Service Dogs Graduate to Assist Individuals with Hearing Impairments

News Summary

A heartfelt graduation ceremony in Orlando celebrated the completion of training for four service dogs paired with new owners who have hearing-related disabilities. The event, hosted by Canine Companions, marks a significant milestone in the organization’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through the support of trained service animals. The unique bonds formed between the dogs and their recipients were emphasized during the ceremony, highlighting the transformative impact of these partnerships.

Orlando – Four service dogs graduated in a heartfelt ceremony with orange leashes and blue vests, marking the latest milestone for Canine Companions, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing trained service animals to individuals with disabilities for nearly 50 years. The graduation event not only symbolized the completion of training for the dogs—Arugula, Chives, Bubba IV, and Dawson VIII—but also highlighted the unique bond formed between the animals and their new owners, who rely on their assistance to navigate daily life with hearing-related disabilities.

The graduation ceremony was hosted by the Florida Southeast Region chapter of Canine Companions, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary on June 20. This milestone emphasizes the organization’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through the companionship and support of trained service dogs.

The four service dogs were paired with recipients who have varying degrees of hearing impairment. Throughout their training, the dogs learned to recognize and alert their owners to important sounds such as doorbells, alarms, and sirens. This particular graduation was distinctive because it focused solely on graduates who assist individuals with hearing-related disabilities, setting it apart from previous events.

The process of training a service dog is a lengthy and dedicated endeavor. Canine Companions begins by breeding dogs at their national headquarters in California. These dogs then spend about 18 months being raised by volunteers before moving on to training at one of the organization’s six centers. There, they master essential commands and are ultimately matched with individuals in need of assistance.

Recipients often travel significant distances and may wait years before receiving their service dogs. TinaMarie Sifford, a 60-year-old resident of Wilmington, North Carolina, received Arugula, affectionately known as “RuRu.” Sifford, who has congenital rubella syndrome resulting in 98% deafness, shared the emotional impact RuRu has had on her life. After experiencing feelings of loss following the death of her mother and previous service dog, Sifford has found renewed independence and social interaction thanks to RuRu’s companionship. During the ceremony, the bond between Sifford and Arugula was palpable as the dog leaped into her arms upon being presented with her new owner.

Another recipient, Marisol Velázquez, a junior at the University of West Florida, was partnered with Bubba IV, a service dog named after professional golfer Bubba Watson. Velázquez has moderate to severe hearing loss and had sought a service dog since high school, eager for Bubba IV to support her as she transitions to college life. The pairing aims to ease some of the challenges she faces, offering both companionship and assistance.

The trainers for these service dogs, Kathryn Daniel and Brion Crow, expressed their satisfaction in seeing the transformation of the dogs they trained, which includes an emotional farewell upon graduation. They noted the rewarding experience of helping the dogs improve the lives of their new owners, despite the emotional challenges that accompany the surrender of the dogs they have nurtured.

The graduation ceremony served as a powerful reminder of Canine Companions’ mission, showcasing not just the skill and training of the animals but also the profound connections formed between service dogs and their recipients. These partnerships greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, fostering independence and enhancing social engagement. The emotional impact and significance of receiving a service dog are deeply felt by all those involved, celebrating a new chapter filled with hope and companionship.

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HERE Resources

Four Hearing Dogs Graduate from Canine Companions in Orlando

Additional Resources

• Orlando Sentinel: From Training to Triumph – Four Service Dogs Gifted to Disabled Owners in Orlando
• Click Orlando: Canine Companions Receives $25K Grant to Support Veterans
• WFTV: 4 Hearing Dogs Graduate from Canine Companions in Orlando
• WSMV: Belmont Student Trains Future Service Dog Through Canine Companions Collegiate Program
• Wikipedia: Dog Training