Getting to Know Nash

Karen Staats & Hearing Assistance Dog Nash 

Ask Karen about Nash and she’ll proudly exclaim, “He’s my ears!” Karen has severe hearing loss and was worried about her future until she met Nash, her wonderful black Labrador Retriever Hearing Assistance Dog.

After searching the internet and checking with local humane societies she came across Can Do Canines’ website. Looking through the site and watching some of the heartwarming videos on YouTube led her to apply for a Hearing Assistance Dog.

Nash offers more than just companionship to Karen. Nash goes to work with her every day and lets her know of any sounds like the telephone ringing or if people are in the hallway and need her. Outside of traveling to work with Karen, Nash alerts her to timer sounds, alarms and especially the doorbell which she proudly proclaims that he has down pat. She says that Nash likes to work on his skills and she feels he knows when they’re going to practice, specifically because he really loves treats!

“The people at my work have noticed how good he is for me. They’ve noticed how I’ve changed and I’m sleeping now! I’m not as worried as I was for my future.”

Assistance dogs don’t come fully trained with all of the bells and whistles. Each pair must practice together and bond in order for the team to truly succeed. Karen felt the most difficult part of the training process was just getting to know Nash. She says, “There’s a lot I didn’t know but the Can Do Canines staff taught me a lot. That was a little scary at first, but once I got to know him it was smooth sailing.”

Karen’s advice to those looking into working with an assistance dog is that you really need to know what you’re getting into. The process is deeply involved, and although it’s hard to explain she believes it’s worth it. She says, “You just have to be dedicated and you have to do it the right way. I would recommend it to anyone!”

“He’s actually a godsend. He’s helped me more than I’ve ever thought possible. Things I didn’t even think of. He has changed my life and I would be totally lost without him for sure!”

While reflecting on the process of receiving Nash and working with Can Do Canines staff, “The process was really special. You guys are great! I couldn’t do it without you. Yes, it was difficult at first but you all stuck with me and taught me. I appreciate that and I’m so glad. Nash was worth the wait!”

Because of donors like you, Nash is able to help Karen live a more independent life filled with less worry and more sleep. Thank you so much for such a gift!

Thank you to all those who made this partnership possible:

Great Start Home—Jenni Schroeder
Puppy Raiser—The Inmate Handlers at the Federal Correctional Institution at Waseca
Special Thanks—Jenni Schroeder