Teen with Hearing Loss Forms Special Bond with Deaf Dog: I Need Him, He’s My Dog

by Theresa.J

A unique friendship has blossomed between a deaf dog named Dave and a teenager, Walker Cousineau, who shares similar physical challenges.

Walker first saw Dave’s photo on social media and immediately felt a connection. He told his mother he wanted Dave to be his new best friend.

At 14 years old, Walker was dealing with hearing loss. Similarly, Dave, a 6-year-old white Pitbull, was also deaf.

In response to Walker’s request, his parents, Mindy and Jim Cousineau, drove 35 miles from their Bentley, Michigan home to the Bissell Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters event. Upon meeting Dave, the bond between Walker and the Pitbull was instant.

Mindy felt it was pure luck that Walker saw Dave’s photo, posted just two days earlier. When Dave settled into Walker’s lap, they were meant to be together.

Walker, a ninth-grader, has bilateral hearing loss and high-functioning autism. He can hear high-pitched sounds but needs a hearing aid for lower-pitched sounds, which began when he was 10 after contracting influenza A.

Their shared hearing loss experience created a deep understanding between Walker and Dave. According to Casey Nicholson from the Humane Society of Midland County, Dave had faced neglect in his previous home, where he was often left outside alone. This background meant he needed extra care and affection.

Dave’s gentle nature made him a favorite among the shelter staff, though his hearing disability led to his longer stay.

He had been at the shelter for nearly a month before the Cousineau family adopted him. Once home, Dave quickly adapted, behaving as if he had always been part of the family.

This touching story of Walker and Dave highlights how shared challenges can form the basis of deep, supportive relationships.