Rosie, an Australian shepherd, takes a ride with her owner Leigh Warren to Cambridge Place, an assisted living community in Opelika, every Thursday to visit her friends, the Cambridge residents.
Rosie is a Delta Society therapy dog, providing companionship to the residents of Cambridge. She is also deaf.
“She was the same as all the other dogs in the litter until day 20,” Warren said.
Dogs are born without senses, she said. Smell is the first sense to develop. Hearing develops on day 20.
Rosie’s disability is known as congenital deafness. The most common cause of congenital deafness is pigment related. Dogs who have primarily white coats, like Australian shepherds and dalmatians, are more susceptible to this disease.
But Rosie’s disability has benefited her as a therapy dog, Warren said. She understands about two-dozen words and commands in American Sign Language, she isn’t disturbed or stressed by loud noises or crowds, and she is more focused on her task.
“Rosie’s been a wonderful treat for us here,” said Shannon Heawood, activities director at Cambridge.
Patricia Manning is a resident at Cambridge. She has lost the use of one side of her body and six weeks ago, she broke her arm. Rosie has acted as her companion on Thursdays.
“She’s such a sweet girl,” Manning said.
The feeling is mutual.
“From the very first time Rosie met Miss Pat she climbed up on the chair with her,” Warren said.
Linda Anderson, program director at Cambridge, said visits from Rosie and Warren are a highlight of the residents’ week.
“She is so gentle and sweet natured. The residents just love her,” Anderson said.
Thursday, Rosie also visited resident Mildred McConnell’s room. She lay at the foot of McConnell’s chair, placing her head on her feet.
Warren said because of Rosie, she’s become friends with many of the residents at Cambridge.
“It’s this natural kind of link to friendship,” she said. “They’re so appreciative. They love her.”
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