In the United States, a small percentage of dogs, ranging from 5 to 10%, are affected by deafness. While some dogs lose their hearing as they get older, others are born with this condition, often due to a genetic mutation known as cochleosaccular.
This type of deafness is more common in dogs with white coats and blue eyes. Blu, a pit bull with striking blue eyes and a white coat, is one such deaf dog.
For a long time, Blu was left unvisited at an animal shelter. However, her fortunes changed when Mark and Sean, two business partners from San Francisco, were specifically looking to adopt a deaf dog.
They found Blu at Family Dog Rescue, where there were two deaf dogs available for adoption.
Mark and Sean were immediately drawn to Blu’s lively spirit when they first met her at the shelter. Mark shared with GeoBeats Animals, “She took an immediate strong connection to Sean and the rest is pretty much history.”
Blu’s previous owners had to surrender her to the shelter when they moved into a rental property that did not allow pit bulls, despite having cared for her for six years.
As a result, Blu ended up being one of the longest residents in the shelter and being alone for so long made it difficult for her to fully open up to her new owners at first.
Initially, Blu was uncertain about Mark and Sean’s intentions and feared she might be returned to the shelter. Mark recalled how terrified Blu was during her first car ride to the beach, saying, “She was just shaking in the back.”
Over time, as Blu grew more comfortable and trusting with Mark and Sean, her personality blossomed. Three years on, Blu now relishes car rides, thanks to the love and attention she receives from Mark and Sean.
Blu has developed a special relationship with her new family. She watches her fathers’ movements to understand where they are going and even sniffs their feet during walks.
Sean and Blu have such a deep bond that he considers her his “spirit animal,” understanding her emotions well. As Sean puts it, “We just read each other pretty well.”
Mark and Sean have also found creative ways to communicate with Blu, using finger movements and stern looks to convey messages. They even worked with a trainer to teach her stress-relieving techniques, like stretching.
Blu’s deafness has minimal impact on her interactions with Mark and Sean, although it affects her ability to understand subtle cues from other dogs.
Mark mentioned that both Blu and other deaf dogs he has owned don’t pick up on the finer details of canine body language.
Sean expressed a special fondness for deaf dogs, stating, “They can hear with their hearts,” and appreciates their unique qualities. Blu remains unfazed by loud fireworks—which usually disturb most dogs—and this trait is a bonus in her new home.
The connection between Blu and her adoptive dads is palpable and heartwarming. Blu has found a loving home where she is cherished, happy, and healthy. It’s clear that both parties have positively impacted each other’s lives.
Feel free to share Blu’s heartwarming story with your loved ones.
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