You have severe to profound hearing loss in both ears.
You are a resident of Central or Southern California, Western Nevada or Western Arizona.
You are 21 years of age or older (for Certified Hearing Dog); 12 years of age or older (for Home Hearing Dog).
You can provide a reference from your medical doctor, a family member or a friend if requested.
Our waitlist varies but can be up to 2 years. You have to be willing to wait and be comfortable being matched to a dog by the training staff.
No other pet dogs living in the home.
You enjoy the company of a dog. (A Hearing Dog is with you twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. A significant part of having a Hearing Dog is simply enjoying his or her companionship).
You are willing and able to fairly and consistently follow a trainer’s advice to maintain a Hearing Dog’s training.
You are physically able to walk a dog approximately a mile every day for exercise without the use of a mobility aide.
You can provide a Hearing dog with the following: A high-quality dog food, several outings each day to relieve himself, grooming, veterinarian visits, exercise, playtime and affection from you.
Finances to properly take care of a dog.
People you live with want a dog in the home.
(Are they willing to follow The Sam Simon Foundation's guidelines?)
You have a solid support system to help you care for a dog when you are unable to for a day.
I have read all the information on this page and believe I meet all the requirements to apply for a Hearing Dog.