Encountering a therapy dog is always remarkable, but when that therapy dog also happens to be a special needs dog – words fail to express the amazement!
The tale of Cole, a deaf therapy Pitbull, is the most incredible narrative you will come across today. Although his beginnings were not particularly smooth for this shelter pup, he now assists thousands of individuals in embracing themselves as they are and conquering their anxieties.
For Cole, Deafness Is Completely Natural
Cole has been deaf from birth, making his inability to hear anything entirely normal for him. Nevertheless, this stunning white Pittie faced challenges in adjusting to the environment, as he struggled to locate his forever home.
But everything was about to transform when Chris, a music instructor from Millville, New Jersey, stepped into a local shelter and encountered Cole for the first time…
Chris Welcomed Him Into His Home In 2017
Chris first came across Cole in 2017 at a nearby shelter. The reason Cole caught the attention of his future owner immediately was due to the sign stating “special needs” on Cole’s crate.
At that moment, Chris had a 9-year-old nephew who was also deaf, thus this unfortunate Pittie captured his interest even more. He promptly resolved to adopt him upon recognizing something truly special in this white dog.
Thus began Cole’s journey towards becoming a therapy dog…
Cole Provides Therapy to Veterans, Assists Children, and Aids Other Dogs
After adopting Cole, Christopher turned his work with his deaf dog into a lifelong mission. He trained Cole and taught him sign language for effective communication. As a result, years of persistent training have transformed Cole into an exceptional therapy dog.
Since Chris has been employed at an elementary school in Millville, NJ, he opted to give Cole the opportunity to teach others about empathy and inclusion.
The initial concept was to assist children in realizing that disability does not equate to inability, but rather demonstrates strength. And indeed, he succeeded!
Cole has become an integral member of the school community, participating in advocacy and inclusion therapies. Moreover, he serves as the school mascot when required and takes part in various school performances.
Additionally, Cole provides support to retired military personnel, individuals with disabilities, and even fellow dogs. He aids them in understanding that being unique is not a deficit, serving as a true illustration that inclusion is achievable, even for a deaf dog.
2022 Therapy Hero Dog
In 2022, Cole was awarded the title of Therapy Hero Dog by the American Hero Humane Dog Association for assisting individuals and dogs who have been marginalized due to their disabilities.
He contributed over 600 hours of volunteer service, which is truly remarkable. Together with his life partner, Chris, Cole continues his purpose-driven work to this very day! He takes joy in being embraced and having a forever home, and he remains dedicated to helping others achieve the same!