“Deaf dog learns sign language while waiting for an extra special home” and similar headlines are seen more often on social media sites for canine rescue organizations. There are specialist deaf and blind dog rescue groups in both the U.K. and U.S., and we can see breeders carefully placing their deaf or visually impaired pups in homes rather than hiding them away. Whether blind or deaf from birth, due to an accident or old age, trainers and behavior consultants are increasingly likely to be working with these dogs and helping them to enjoy a better quality of life. Can deaf dogs play like hearing dogs? What kind of toys work best for blind dogs? How can we help deaf and/or blind dogs play more safely with other dogs? All these questions and more will be discussed as we explore the world of play and social interactions for dogs with hearing and/or visual impairments. Drawing on the available research, plus personal experience of living with deaf, and deaf-blind dogs, and knowledge collected while supporting the Deaf Dog Network (U.K.), the presenter will help you see the world from a different perspective. Learning Objectives: Appreciate the key similarities and differences in behavior between dogs with visual or auditory impairments, and those without. Explore the distinctive social interaction styles of deaf and/or blind dogs. Understand how to train three key skills with deaf and/or blind dogs to enhance their quality of life.

Sponsor:Pet Professional Guild
Speaker(s):Dr. Morag Heirs

Contact: Sharon Nettles
 Email: membershipcoordinator@petprofessionalguild.com
 Phone: 731-300-6520
 Web: https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-4331402