To the rescue

Whenever possible, the dogs are selected from rescue centres, but they are also donated by breeders and members of the public, with the remainder coming from the Charity's own breeding scheme.

The Charity’s supply team, supported by volunteers, is in constant contact with rescue centres and dog wardens throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

right: Chip is now making a huge difference to his deaf recipient's life after being selected from Battersea Dogs Home.

Our assessors are travelling further afield to find new recruits because improved awareness of dog welfare and more extensive neutering programmes mean that there are fewer young, unwanted dogs in UK rescue suitable for training as hearing dogs. We are investigating the best ways of transporting dogs from rescue centres overseas and continue to work closely with other rescue charities in order to help as many deaf people and unwanted dogs as possible.

Rescue trips to the Republic of Ireland

Successful trips to rescue centres in the Republic of Ireland have resulted in many new recruits over the past year.

Stray and abandoned dogs continue to be a major problem in the Republic of Ireland. Hearing Dogs has now employed Ilse Sas, formerly of the Animal Care Society in Doneraile, County Cork, to identify and select potential hearing dogs from the hundreds needing a new home. Still based in Cork, Ilse reports to the selection team at Hearing Dogs’ headquarters. She regularly crosses the Irish Sea with dogs which enter into Hearing Dogs’ training programme.

These trips enable abandoned dogs to lead happy and fulfilling lives – and prove that these dogs are capable of great things if given a chance and a loving home.