Dogs can do a lot more than just play fetch even though that is enough reason to love them. They can fill many roles and utilize their gifts and senses to help out their owners. They don't even ask for anything but love in return. Kooikerhondjes, for example, can work as duck decoys, hearing dogs, and therapy dogs. These dogs have a lot to offer if only given the chance. Let's see exactly what they can do.
Kooikerhondje have the rare distinction of being duck decoys. The name Kooikerhondje in Dutch is a direct reference to this particular skill. It translates into English as something close to "decoy dog". This name probably originates with the Dutch because they created duck decoys a very long time ago. Kooikerhondjes were found to possess this special skill and the name was born. For many years and even in the present these dogs serve this purpose and are specifically known for it apart from other breeds. Aside from hunting, Kooikerhondjes can assist with more basic needs as well.
We are all aware that dogs have a keen sense of hearing, and Kooikerhondjes, like other breeds, can put this to good use by becoming hearing dogs. Hearing dogs alert their hearing impaired owners to sounds in the environment. This can include fire, smoke, and burglar alarms as well as a knock at the door or even the sound of a baby crying. They can help increase the independence of the hearing impaired while still filling the role of the loving pet. The hearing impaired may not be able to be aware of these environmental cues on their own, but with some canine assistance they can increase their independence dramatically. What you may not realize is that they can be of great help in places other than the home as well.
As therapy dogs, Kooikerhondjes can benefit people in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and other similar facilities. These days the benefits of petting animals is well known in the medical community. Petting a dog can relieve stress, tension, and even lower blood pressure. It has been said that people with pets may even live longer due to this reduction in stress or, in any case, they may just be happier and more relaxed which is gift enough. With all the things they can do, you can surely see that Kooikerhondjes are definitely capable of more than bringing back a stick.
Dogs can do many things. The Kooikerhondje breed can sometimes serve as duck decoys, aid hearing impaired owners, and provide therapeutic relief to people in need. Kooikerhondjes can do many things for people if we only give them the opportunity, and what is even more important is that they will gladly help out any way they can.
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