Many people feel unsure about adopting a dog with special needs, and because of that hesitation, these animals are too often labeled as difficult instead of being seen for the companions they truly are.
That perspective overlooks something important.
Dogs with special needs want the same things as any other pet, affection, safety, and a place where they belong. Even when the world feels less understanding, meaningful change begins with people who choose kindness anyway.
This story follows a couple who made that choice, opening their home and their hearts to a deaf dog.
Poundcake Finds His Forever Home
While searching for a dog to adopt, a couple from Massachusetts came across Poundcake. He was deaf, anxious, and unsure of how to interact with people and other dogs.
Despite his challenges, James and his wife made the decision to bring him into their home. The transition wasn’t easy for Poundcake. He was anxious and had mild separation anxiety.
Whenever his new parents left the house, Poundcake would panic. The couple worked tirelessly to help him feel secure and to ease his anxiety.
Over time, Poundcake started to understand that he was not going to be abandoned again, and his anxiety began to lessen.
The couple spent countless hours teaching him new things, particularly how to play. It wasn’t easy, but eventually, Poundcake learned how to enjoy himself. He began to explore new activities with excitement.
They even taught him hand signals, a skill that became vital for his development and communication.
A Long Drive To Make A Dream Come True
As Poundcake’s confidence grew, he started to act more like any other dog. He was thriving. Yet, his family felt something was still missing. They wanted to do even more for him.
Determined to help Poundcake even further, they made the decision to drive 12 hours from Massachusetts to New York to adopt another deaf dog.
When Poundcake met his new sibling, Milkshake, he was overjoyed. Milkshake was more outgoing and self-assured than Poundcake had been at first, and the two dogs clicked instantly.
Milkshake blended seamlessly into the family, and they were thrilled to see the two dogs bonding so well.
Since then, Poundcake and Milkshake have become inseparable.
They love spending time together, especially during trips to the beach where they run freely and play. After their fun, they curl up together for long, peaceful naps.
It’s incredible to see how far both dogs have come. Although they were both born with disabilities, with love and support, they now live full and joyful lives.
A post shared by JAMES COBURN (@make.life.happen)
