A man from Maine who was born deaf chose to adopt a lovable dog with the same condition.
Nick Abbot, aged 31, first noticed a post about Emerson the dog on North Florida Rescue Maine’s social media site. The man remarked that he became fascinated about Emerson after discovering that he, too, is deaf.
The foster-based rescue N.F.R. Maine said that they saved Emerson from a Florida kill shelter before transferring him north at the age of six weeks. The black Labrador mix experienced seizures and was initially threatened by a contagious condition known as canine parvovirus. He eventually recovered from his illness and was soon adopted.
Lindsay Powers of N.F.R. Maine remarked that they didn’t detect Emerson’s hearing issues until they brought him home from the Florida veterinarian’s office.
Lindsay also disclosed that despite having a difficult start in life, the dog seemed unfazed by his obstacles and was acting like a typical, contented puppy. She also continued that she was uncertain as to whether the dog lost his hearing over time or if he was born deaf.
The woman posted on Facebook in March 2019 in the hopes of finding a home for Emerson. Nick Abbott submitted an application weeks later. Nick detailed his condition in his request, which may have contributed to his connection with the animal.
Emerson instantly approached Nick and sat at his feet during their first encounter. Nick felt that the dog chose him, and he knew that they would get along well and communicate effectively. Richelle Abbott, the mother of Nick Abbott, noted that her son and the dog are surely a perfect match.
Nick has since taught Emerson basic sign language commands. Emerson learned well and obeyed each command and now knows to follow “sit”, “lie down”, and “come”. Nick even taught him to bark when his earlobe is shaken.
Source: GMA