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You want your pet to be as happy and healthy as possible throughout their life. If they are deaf or hearing-impaired, there are steps you can take to achieve this. The veterinarians at Baraboo Valley Veterinary Clinic in Sauk County, WI, want to share some advice that will help you help your pet. Below they list some of the best ways to approach the care.

Veterinarians Share 3 Tips on How to Care for a Deaf Or Hearing-Impaired Pet

1. Teach Non-Verbal Cues

VeterinarianIf your pet is deaf, you can’t get their attention by calling their name. Luckily, dogs and other animals can recognize a form of “sign language,” in which certain gestures correspond to certain commands. The veterinarian team at your clinic can help you learn to teach non-verbal commands like sit, stay, come, and more. Although your pet may have low or no hearing, you can still teach them to be obedient.

2. Rely on a Flashlight

Don’t just use hand signals to get your pet’s attention. If they are on the other side of the room and not looking at you, they won’t notice if you’re trying to tell them something. That’s why it’s also wise to train your pet to respond when they see a flashlight shone on the wall.

3. Be Conscious of Your Expression

Deaf animals often learn to gauge a person’s mood or intent by their facial expression. Thus, when interacting with your pet, you should always be mindful of whether you’re smiling or frowning. Making sure your facial expressions are consistent will help your pet better understand your mood throughout life.

It’s also important to schedule regular trips to the veterinarian. At Baraboo Valley Animal Clinic, offering pet care services in and around Sauk County, WI, they’ll make sure your furry friend is as happy and healthy as possible. If there’s a deaf of hearing-impaired animal in your home, they can also help you find the best ways to care for them. Contact them online to learn more, or call (608) 355-2882.

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