I was searching for info on hearing dogs while reading "Lend Me an Ear", and found Pek1's rant from 2005. If you're reading this, you and I have a very similar attitude Pete. I only have moderate hearing loss, which of course makes it hard to call myself disabled. But it is not easy living with people who expect me to hear all sorts of fast, mumbled words with hands covering their mouth. I was told I need a hearing aid nearly 10 years ago. Got one then( can you believe insurance will not cover a hearing aid?!), and it sucks ass. I find myself hearing rusting of leaves instead of people's speech. Now I am told my hearing has gotten worse, and I need a better aid. Well, I can't afford one. So I am training my dog. he's only 15 months old, and already knows how to run to a ringing phone. We just started training last month. I also have a problem with my co-op who did not want to allow me back in my own apartment because I now have a dog. Well, I am jumping through the hoops. And I am loving all the info out there. So glad to be here.