Author: Hailey VanderWilt
We like to think of every assistance dog as more than just a helper, they’re a life-changer, a confidence-booster, and sometimes, a surprise personal trainer.
Meet Stephanie and her hearing service dog, DELTA. They live in North Carolina, where DELTA is not only Stephanie’s ears but also her calm companion, walking buddy, and occasional pie-saving hero.
Their story begins with a golden lab named LULU.
From LULU to DELTA: A Legacy of Listening
Stephanie first connected with PAWS in the mid-2000s after seeing a colleague bring her hearing dog to work. That moment sparked a realization: maybe a hearing service dog could help her too.
Spoiler alert: it did.
LULU, Stephanie’s first PAWS dog, was by her side for over a decade, alerting her to everything from oven timers to doorbells. When it came time for a successor dog, Stephanie applied with PAWS, and that’s when DELTA entered the picture.
DELTA, a black lab with a chill personality and a heart of gold, became a certified team with Stephanie in March 2024. “She’s calm and is a perfect match for my personality,” Stephanie says. “She’s just precious.”
The Brush Fire That Changed Everything
Between LULU’s passing and DELTA’s arrival, Stephanie experienced a moment that reminded her just how vital a hearing dog can be.
“There was an out-of-control brush fire in the neighbor’s yard,” she recalls. “The street was lined with fire trucks, and there was a lot of commotion. I was inside my house, completely oblivious.”
Thankfully, everything turned out fine, but it was a wake-up call. “If DELTA or LULU had been with me, I would have known something was going on.”
Now, with DELTA by her side, Stephanie has peace of mind. Whether it’s a knock at the door or a smoke alarm, DELTA’s got it covered.
A New Routine (With More Walks)
DELTA’s impact goes beyond safety. She’s also helped Stephanie build healthier habits—like daily walks.
“I’m getting more exercise!” Stephanie laughs. “DELTA loves to go on long walks, so that benefits me as well.”
And then there’s the baking. “I feel more confident I’m not missing important sounds or burning a pie in the oven because I didn’t hear the timer and got distracted,” she says (Yes, that happened, pre-PAWS dog).
Teaching, Learning, and Spreading Awareness
As a professor, Stephanie has seen firsthand how hearing dogs can inspire others. “At least one former student has gone on to get a hearing service dog after learning how helpful they can be when technology is not enough.”
She also appreciates PAWS’ unique approach to training. “I liked that PAWS matched me with a field representative and trained us in our environment. I think there’s a benefit to training where the dog is going to be living.”
The Importance of Puppy Raisers
Stephanie has stayed in touch with the families who raised both LULU and DELTA. “They sent me photos of the dogs growing up and shared stories. They were so happy to see how both were making my life better!”
To anyone hesitant about raising a puppy, Stephanie offers this: “You’re giving someone the gift of independence, safety, and companionship. That’s a powerful legacy.”
Why PAWS?
Stephanie is not just a client, she’s also a donor. “PAWS does a great job matching dogs with the people in need,” she says. “I’ve read testimonies from others and it’s uplifting to see them living life with gusto and confidence.”
Her advice to anyone considering supporting PAWS? “Do it. Your support changes lives. It certainly changed mine.”
From Missed Sounds to Meaningful Moments
Stephanie jokes that she decorated her house to match LULU’s golden fur. “DELTA’s hair shows up everywhere now since I have light rugs and furnishings, but I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Because when you find the perfect partner, one who listens, alerts, walks, and loves unconditionally, you don’t sweat the fur.
Help create more life-changing partnerships like Stephanie and DELTA
Click here to support Paws With A Cause or learn how to get involved.
