Deaf dog learns sign language

The Central Nebraska Humane Society is teaching deaf dogs how to communicate through sign language.

Animal advocates say the hearing impairment could increase a deaf dog's odds of having a tough life.

"They could be set up for abuse or neglect because they don't know how to interact and if they do interact, it's not appropriate," says Laurie Dethloff, Exec. Dir., Central Nebraska Humane Society.

Thanks to volunteers deaf dogs like, Rosie, are becoming more socialized.

"You not only see the volunteer being excited about being able to communicate with, but her being able to understand, oh this is what you want and being able to do it," sats Dethloff.

And when they learn to interact, volunteer Tracie Pfeifle says their owners will have something special.

"I think they're more sensitive to how you're feeling. A lot of people don't know they have a deaf dog, when they figure it out, all of the sudden you find out you have this really amazing animal."

All of the dogs are available for adoption at the Central Nebraska Humane Society, and if you're interested, the human society will of course teach you the signs to interact.