Xena

DD (Deaf dog)

Xena earns her KUSA Canine Good Citizen Gold Award!

Angela Tiltman, November 2022

This is Xena, our Princess Warrior.

Xena was rescued from the streets of a small town called Malmesbury, near Cape Town, South Africa. She was estimated to be just over a year old.

The poor young girl had clearly just had puppies and was treated at a vet for both biliary and a bad ear infection. It was then discovered and confirmed that she was deaf.

The Pitbull Cross was advertised on Facebook as needing a forever home, and my husband and I were so taken with her story that we immediately decided to adopt her.

Angela and Xena proudly show off their Gold Award

Xena and I enrolled in dog obedience training with local trainer, Jan Meyer. She had lots of feisty energy and pulled me off my feet a few times, but I was determined to train her, knowing that this would allow her to have more freedom in a safe environment.

Armed with a pocket full of treats, Xena soon mastered a few basic signs, and training became fun, something she looked forward to, and she was eager to please and learn. 

Thereafter Xena made swift progress, passing her KUSA Bronze Test, then Silver and finally her Gold. I am so proud of how far she has come!

Xena with all her KUSA certificates and rosettes

Xena has a gentle, loveable nature and is always ready to please.
She is a fine example to anyone doubting owning a Pitbull Cross and especially to people that might be hesitant to own a deaf dog.
She holds her own with the other dogs in her class and I would not change her for the world!

Xena takes a treat from my mouth – always so gentle!”