PROGRAMS PTSD DOGS: TASKS PTSD DOGS: BENEFITS SEIZURES BLINDNESS DEAFNESS FIRST RESPONDERS
How Service Dogs Empower Veterans with Hearing Loss
At Pawsitivity, we train service dogs to help veterans with hearing impairments (often paired with other disabilities) regain independence, confidence, and connection.
Critical Tasks Performed by Hearing Service Dogs
These dogs are more than companions—they are life-changing partners. These service dogs are trained to:
- Alert their handlers to critical sounds, such as smoke alarms or doorbells.
- Provide safety by alerting handlers to someone approaching from behind.
- Offer peace of mind and a sense of security in public spaces.
Building Social Connections Through Service Dogs
Veterans with hearing loss often face isolation and loneliness. Our service dogs act as “social bridges,” helping veterans build friendships and engage more with their communities. Nearly all handlers report increased socialization and an improved sense of belonging.
Life-Changing Benefits of Hearing Service Dogs
The journal, "Deaf Studies and Deaf Education" did a study[1] that found that the handlers not only showed a large reduction in hearing-related problems(!), but the handlers also had:
- A decrease in tension, anxiety, and depression.
- An increase in social involvement and independence
Another study[2] found that:
- Having a hearing service dog reduced their dependency on other people.
- A service dog for a deaf person reduced the hours of paid assistance needed.
- Concluded that hearing assistance dogs have a major positive impact on their handlers.
77% of people with hearing service dog reported that "It is easier to leave my home with my service dog", and hearing service dogs were found to help:
- Socially
- Psychologially
- Safety
- Improved relaxation
- Health
- An increase in social involvement and independence
- Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as chores, self-care, and mobility in the home and community
The study concluded that getting a hearing service dog would help a person who is deaf:
"(1) be healthier, (2) be more physically independent, (3) function better, (4) be more mobile, (5) participate more in productive activities, and (6) be more satisfied with life."
How Service Dogs Improve Success in the Workplace
For veterans with hearing impairments, service dogs provide essential support at work, helping them excel in their roles. A study[3] found that the benefits of having a service dog at work far outweigh any challenges, improving productivity and relationships.
Real Stories of Impact
“The service dog gives me an overall sense of security and independence. I am not as afraid to go into a public area where I can be vulnerable.” – Pawsitivity Testimonial
Join Us in Supporting Veterans with Hearing Loss
Your support can make a difference. Each service dog costs $25,000 to train, and with your help, we can provide these life-changing companions to veterans in need.
Donate Today to Transform a Veteran’s Life
[1] "Hearing Dogs: A Longitudinal Study of Social and Psychological Effects on Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Recipients," Claire M. Guest, along with Glyn M. Collis and June McNicholas.
[2] "Effects of assistance dogs on persons with mobility or hearing impairments," Diana H. Rintala, PhD; Rebeca Matamoros, BS; and Laura L. Seitz.
[3] "An Exploratory Study of the Elements of Successful Service Dog Partnerships in the Workplace," Margaret K. Glenn.