Doggos like Cole are as uncommon as double rainbows, and their existence signifies nothing less than the greatest gift to humanity.
His remarkable tale has resonated with millions across the globe, yet despite this, this pup continues to astonish us!
Cole entered the world as a deaf pup. He spent the initial months of his existence as an overlooked lad at a nearby New Jersey shelter. He was repeatedly passed over by several families who considered him “damaged.”
What this darling Pittie was unaware of at that moment was that his distinct condition, coupled with those two words stationed above his pen – “SPECIAL NEEDS” – would ignite the most extraordinary journey for any dog!
And thus his narrative begins!
Cole’s Incredible Expedition
If there’s one thing we can assert with confidence, it’s that Cole has always been a unique dog! As a deaf puppy, he faced a challenging beginning in a local shelter, where he spent months witnessing other pups find their forever homes from a cramped kennel.
One afternoon, a public school music teacher from New Jersey, Christopher Hannah, arrived at the shelter to adopt a dog, and the sign above Cole’s crate captured his attention.
He was instantly smitten with the notion of adopting Cole, and the fact that he was deaf only increased his desire to bring him home!
Chris had a little nephew who was also deaf, and he believed that he and Cole would bond beautifully.
One day, a man questioned Chris why he would even contemplate adopting “a broken dog,” igniting a spark within him! This man’s comment prompted him to think of his nephew and rethink his perspective entirely.
The truth that Cole effortlessly connected with everyone encouraged him to pursue the idea of training his companion to be a therapy dog. And that was the moment when everything began to shift for this incredible pair!
Embracing Uniqueness
Throughout the training journey, Chris recognized the remarkable qualities of Cole. With each passing day, he absorbed all the knowledge and mastered sign language swiftly.
Yet, more importantly, Cole never ceased to showcase an extraordinary bond with children and humanity overall! It seemed he was destined to be a helper! His boundless ability to demonstrate affection and kindness came effortlessly!
Chris adeptly trained Cole to become a certified therapy dog, and the duo has been collaborating at Dr. Mennies School ever since! Daily, Cole motivates students grappling with feelings of “brokenness” to embrace self-love and empowerment.
“Cole, alongside Chris’ deaf nephew, has taught children that it’s okay to be different, assisted students in recovering their confidence and self-worth, and inspired acts of goodwill throughout the community,” reads a statement on Cole’s official website.
This wonderful Pittie aids them in overcoming their personal challenges through the social-emotional learning program.
By demonstrating persistence in a world that can feel isolating and detached, Cole has become an inspiration to many – and has positively impacted countless lives!
ASPCA Dog Of The Year
Not only does he contribute at his father’s school – Cole offers so much more than that!
When he’s not supporting his dedicated students, this extraordinary Pittie serves at the NJ Veterans Memorial Home. Because of his outstanding work with veterans, Cole has even been named their official mascot!
He also assists hospice patients in his community and frequents care facilities throughout New Jersey to bring joy to those in need.
Lastly, Cole received an accolade in 2023 for being the ASPCA dog of the year! It was a deeply emotional moment when his dad learned of this wonderful news, but Cole entirely deserved this recognition!
As a rescue dogs’ ambassador, a remarkable therapist, a community advocate, and simply the best companion imaginable, this honor confirmed that Cole is indeed one of a kind.
“One small Deaf shelter dog that has transformed into a hero… it’s all directed by destiny and fate. We are immensely fortunate and grateful to experience this journey together. We appreciate your support,” Christopher shared on Instagram.
Once a dog that nobody deemed worthy, Cole now lives his best life alongside his dad, assisting countless individuals in conquering their anxieties and starting to live boldly – just as he once did!