For nearly seven years, Cole, a deaf therapy dog, has been a beloved member of a local school, touching the lives of countless students. His unwavering support and calming presence have made him an irreplaceable part of the community. To show their immense gratitude, the school goes all out every year to celebrate his birthday in style.
“As a school, we have celebrated Cole’s birthday each year he has been a member of our faculty,” shared Chris Hannah, Cole’s dad, in an interview . “Even during the pandemic, we had virtual school celebrations.”
This year was no exception. Cole’s birthday was marked with all the fanfare he deserves. Dressed in an adorable birthday outfit, Cole rode around in a specially decorated birthday wagon. A group of his student friends proudly wheeled him into the cafeteria, where the entire school eagerly awaited his arrival.
But the highlight of the day was something truly special. Because Cole is deaf, every single student learned how to sign “Happy Birthday” in American Sign Language (ASL). As they sang and signed the song, Cole sat in the spotlight, soaking up the love and attention from his adoring fans.
“He was so ornery all day, extra playful, acting super silly, which was definitely because he knew it was his birthday celebration day,” Hannah said. “He’s usually extra chill while working, but who couldn’t love some silliness? He looked around from all angles to see the students signing to him with the utmost attention on their hands.”
The students’ excitement was palpable. They had spent two weeks practicing the song in sign language, determined to make the performance perfect for their cherished furry friend. When the moment came, their dedication paid off as Cole watched them with unfiltered joy.
“The kids were so excited to be such an important part of his special day,” Hannah said. “They practiced signing the song for two weeks prior because they wanted it to be ‘perfect’ for their boy.”
After the heartfelt performance, Cole was presented with his traditional birthday treat: a cheeseburger. Cheers erupted as he devoured it, thoroughly enjoying his annual indulgence. By the end of the celebration, Cole was so happily exhausted that he dozed off in his birthday wagon as his students wheeled him away.
“Cole is an extremely important part of the lives of these students, and to see their love and admiration for their furry hero is nothing short of breathtaking,” Hannah said.
The bond between Cole and his students is a testament to the profound connection that can exist between animals and humans. Cole’s birthday is more than just a celebration of another year; it’s a reflection of the deep love and gratitude shared between this extraordinary therapy dog and the school community that adores him.
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