Meet Nick Abbot, a deaf guy of 31 years. Nick was on Facebook a few weeks ago when he came across a post from NFR Maine, an animal rescue group in his area. It featured Emerson, a “incredible” dog who overcome a severe disease as an abandoned baby that left him deaf.
Emerson was the only one of his litter who hadn’t been adopted – until Nick Abbot appeared in his cape. “He came directly to me at the entrance, sat at my feet, and stayed there,” Nick told WABI. And that was true love at first sight. When Nick arrived at the shelter, 12-week-old Emerson ran up to him and clung to him the entire time. Nick described the encounter by saying that he “knew right then and there” that he and Emerson “would get along and understand one other quite well.” Nick began teaching Emerson sign language once the couple had settled into their new home, and the dog is catching on like a pro. He already knows how to say “sit” and “lay down!” When questioned about his new four-legged friend, Nick said, “The relationship that we have is wonderful.” He raved about how well they understood “one other” and commended Emerson for being “unique.”
“We really had an extremely difficult time finding him the PERFECT home,” NFR said on Facebook. “Nick expressed interest in Emerson since he, too, is deaf! Nick expressed an interest in meeting Emerson since they would understand each other due to their similar hearing issues. “When Nick and his mother entered the home to meet Emerson, Emerson made a beeline for Nick and sat at his feet. That was all that was required. I was convinced that this was fate, and that these two were meant to be together.”
Stats on Pet Adoption That Will Astound You Adopting a pet is a win-win situation for both people and the animals we welcome into our homes.
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10 of the Smartest Dogs in the World:
A friend of mine has a beautiful Dalmatian. Friendly, energetic and lovable, she was a perfect family pet… but she wasn’t the smartest pooch on the planet. See, she knew how to go through the pet door out into the garden, but she had no clue how to get back inside. It never occurred to her that the flap could swing both ways. So she would sit outside and howl until my friend would open the door.
Repeated demonstrations of the dual movement of the flap had no effect; it just did not compute. The dog breeds on this list, however, probably don’t have that problem. They’re widely considered to be among the cleverest canines in the world. Take a look and see if you agree.
1. German Shepherd
No surprise here. German Shepherds are the world’s best police dogs, military dogs, and some have even been movie stars (remember Rin Tin Tin?). Brave, loyal, smart and strong, they’re the total package.
2. Beagle
Also on the list of the best family-friendly dogs in the world, the Beagle has an incredible nose that lets them sniff out just about anything. Born detectives, they’re not the most trainable pets, but they are smart. And hey, nobody ever accused Snoopy of being dumb.
3. Golden Retriever
A popular choice for assistance dogs for their easy temperament, natural intelligence and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are natural guides and also serve as great rescue dogs. Active and fun to be around, they’re wonderful family pets.
4. Border Collie
Border Collies are considered by many to be the geniuses of the dog world. Expert herders, laser-focused (they’re known for their intense stare), and incredibly agile to boot, they’re workaholics and excellent athletes. Just don’t expect to keep one cooped up in an apartment.
5. Poodle
Did you know poodles were originally hunting dogs? They respond very well to training and are quick to learn tricks. So don’t let the fluffy looks and styled mane fool you! These dogs are among the smart canines around. Plus, they’re among the best dogs in the world for those who suffer allergies.
6. Belgian Malinois
A terrific military dog, the Malinois is a natural herder, tracker and worker. Smart, trainable and protective, these dogs require an owner who knows what he or she is doing. In addition to the military, Malinois are often recruited as guard dogs and police dogs as well.
7. Papillon
Named for their butterfly-shaped ears, papillons are small, cute and pretty smart. They’re considered the smartest of the toy dog breed, with intelligence levels comparable to the über-smart border collie. They’re alert and focused pets, and loyal and lovable: an ideal friend for he family.
8. Doberman
Sadly, Dobermans are known more for their ferocity than their smarts, but these are considered among the most intelligent dogs in the world, as well as one of the most effective guard dogs around. They’re outstanding students known to be affectionate and obedient.
9. Bloodhound
Don’t let the wrinkles and dopey expression fool you! Bloodhounds have the keenest of noses, and are often used for trailing (so much so that their evidence can be used in court against you!). These are loving but strong-willed dogs, and are often used on search and rescue missions.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
You need a smart, determined and energetic dog to control unruly cows. And that’s just what the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, does. They’re intelligent enough to herd these much larger creatures, and while they need their independence and wide open spaces, they’re eager workers who know how to get the job done.
Did we miss your brainy dog on this list? If so, write in and let us know about it!
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