My Story — Tazz
My dear deaf dog, Tazz
by Ann Marie Oktaba
Tazz and Rudy
When I first found out Tazz was deaf, she was about 9 weeks old, even though we suspected it since the moment we got her. When we took her to the vet with the suspicion that she may be deaf, the vet receptionist asked me if I was going to keep her. I never even thought of giving her up...
Tazz is very special to us. She was exceptionally easy to train as she compensates for her deafness by being extremely attentive with her eyes. She responded much quicker to training than her sister Dakota (who is capable of hearing) and surprisingly, has always been more responsive and focused than her sister. She now is a one-year old dog that knows about 20 hand signals and is quick to respond to body language. She often tries to get your attention by "sidling" up to you... you don't even know she's there, until you turn around to see her eyes focused on you. Tazz took it upon herself to adjust to her quiet environment and she has developed a signature style to win over your heart. Her charm has even won over the heart of Rudy, our very stubborn and moody cat!
Off-leash walks have never been a problem for Tazz as she never wanders too far and always keeps an eye on us. Tazz is also a very quiet dog and seldom barks. She is quite social and takes a submissive role with other dogs. There are many ways that dogs compensate for a lack of hearing, and Tazz has adjusted to her environment extremely well. She has a personality and charm that shines through everyday.
The only significant difference between Tazz and her sister is that Tazz can sleep through anything... and needs a light touch or kiss to wake her up... noise just won't cut it for her.
Most days I forget that she is deaf. She is a very special dog and our life wouldn't be the same without her.
Tazz and Kirby the iguana
Puppies Tazz and Dakota
Tazz, Dakota and friend Moto
