Deaf rescue dog Eddie wins hearts as RSPCA seeks him a caring home

A deaf rescue dog is capturing hearts at Block Fen Animal Centre in Cambridgeshire. Six-year-old Eddie, a bull breed, was rescued by RSPCA officers and police from unsuitable living conditions having been left behind in a property, in County Durham, when his owners moved out. He was taken in by the RSPCA’s Block Fen Animal Centre earlier this summer, where staff soon discovered he was deaf. Tiffany Fowler, kennel supervisor at Block Fen, said: "We believe Eddie was born deaf and he copes very well without his hearing. "In fact, we often forget that he’s deaf. "We all chat away to him and if he’s looking at us he’ll wag his tail and get excited; it’s like he can lip-read and knows we’re speaking to him." Deaf dog Eddie (Image: RSPCA) Staff believe Eddie could learn sign language and respond well to visual commands. Despite his hearing loss, Eddie has settled comfortably into kennel life. Ms Fowler said: "When we arrive in the mornings and go to say ‘good morning’ to all of the dogs, who are all barking and wagging their tails at their doors, Eddie is usually fast asleep, snoring in his bed. "He doesn’t get stressed by the noise and the other dogs, and this can be tough for some dogs. "We go into his kennel and give him a gentle stroke to wake him up and let him know that we’re there, so we don’t startle him and make him jump." Eddie has been enjoying spending time with the reception team at the animal centre, welcoming visitors to Block Fen. Ms Fowler said: "Eddie is one of those dogs who has a gift for making people smile. "He is incredibly friendly, affectionate and adores being around people." The RSPCA hopes to find Eddie a patient and caring home with someone who can continue his training and help him adjust to a new life.