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.