Quota NOCO spent an engaging and educational evening learning about the non-profit organization International Hearing Dog, Inc (IHDI) on June 28, 2023. Leah Jacobson a Hearing Dog Trainer with IHDI also brought and introduced us to “Astro”.

Astro is a doodle breed and started his initial training when he was 8 weeks old. Astro began his early training at the Torrington prison in Wyoming. The initial training was conducted by inmates at the prison. After several months IHDI continued Astros training and Astro will be adopted with a hearing-impaired individual in the state of Georgia in early July, 2023.

International Hearing Dog, Inc (IHDI) a “small and mighty” organization was founded in 1974. IHDI’s mission is to “empower individuals who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing by purposefully training specially selected dogs to alert to sounds; carefully matching these dogs with handlers who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing; and supporting the paired teams throughout the lifetime of the match”.

The training method is based on “positivity and praise” and generally can take at least 6 months if not longer depending on the breed and age of the dog. Each dog is initially trained to be “alert” to 2-3 common sounds such as the fire alarm, baby crying and a/or a door knock. When dogs are placed with an adult, the adult is also given in-depth training to continue to confidently work and handle their service dog. IHDI maintains contact with the client to ensure the placement is working well, they also offer guidance and advice during their monthly visits as needed.

Since its inception, IHDI has partnered nearly 1,400 teams of people who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing and has customed trained dogs in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and throughout Canada. Additionally, IHDI has helped support the development of similar programs in Norway, Japan, and Australia. For additional information about IHDI visit their website at: https://www.hearingdog.org/

Our evening continued with the introductions of two of Quota NOCO’s recent scholarship recipients. Kylie and Kaylie are both graduates of Poudre High School in Fort Collins, CO. Kylie will be attending Colorado College in Colorado Springs and Kaylie will be attending Montana State this fall. Congratulations to both amazing women and we are excited to remain in contact with you as you pursue your educational journey’s.