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Deaf Dog Celebrates Birthday With Signing Students
23 Nov
Summary
- A deaf therapy dog named Cole celebrated his birthday at a New Jersey school.
- Students learned American Sign Language to sing 'Happy Birthday' to Cole.
- Cole inspires acceptance and demonstrates disability is not inability.
At Dr. William Mennies Elementary School in Vineland, New Jersey, a heartwarming birthday celebration unfolded for Cole, a 9-year-old deaf therapy dog. Students surprised Cole by learning American Sign Language to sing him 'Happy Birthday,' creating a memorable moment shared online. Cole has served as the school's therapy dog for seven years, profoundly impacting students by teaching them about acceptance and the concept that a disability is not an inability.
Cole's owner, music teacher Christopher Hannah, emphasized Cole's role in fostering a positive school environment. Cole greets students daily, embodying resilience and offering comfort. The school's principal, Karly O'Donoghue, noted Cole's integral part in the school community, highlighting how his presence cultivates empathy, communication, and joy among students and staff.
Cole's inspiring journey extends beyond the school, as he was named ASPCA dog of the year in 2023. His owner founded the Team Cole Project to advocate for a more accepting world for individuals with disabilities, inspired by early skepticism about adopting a deaf dog. Cole also volunteers as a hospice therapy dog and is the mascot for the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home.
