The initiative was jointly organised by Richard Cantrell, an experienced volunteer dog trainer for the charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and his son, Professor Tom Cantrell, who is Head of the university’s Arts and Creative Technologies School.
The students met seven fully-qualified hearing dogs, ambassador dogs and dogs-in-training, together with their volunteer trainers and deaf partners. After a brief introduction to the charity’s work, the handlers took the dogs to meet small groups of students, currently revising for, or sitting their exams.
Richard said: “We had a great time yesterday at the university. It’s a well-known fact that there’s nothing like a happy dog with a wet nose and a waggy tail to help you de-stress, and this was definitely borne out. It was incredible to see the difference just a short time with the dogs made to the students.”
Tom Cantrell, Head of the university’s Arts and Creative Technologies School, said: “We were delighted to welcome Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to campus. It was a great opportunity for our students and staff to learn about the charity and what better way to reduce exam stress than meeting and playing with the dogs.”
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People have an urgent need for volunteer dog trainers like Richard in the York region and across the country. Volunteers play a vital role in raising and training puppies who will go on to help deaf adults and children, alerting them to vital sounds and offering constant companionship and emotional support.
Volunteer dog trainers care for and train a puppy in their own home, with the support of one of the charity’s expert staff trainers. Hearing Dogs covers all costs involved, from the moment the volunteer takes the puppy home, to when they are matched with their deaf partner.
The role is perfect for local dog lovers, possibly retired, who enjoy having the company of a dog in their home, but don’t want the expense or 14-year commitment of a pet dog. Volunteers should live in a home with a secure garden and have plenty of time to spare each day.
Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering for the charity, can email the Volunteering team at volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk / 01844 348100 or find out more on the website www.hearingdogs.org.uk/volunteer