Dog’s Hearing Dilemma: Is Mabel Deaf or Just Selectively Ignoring?
A video featuring a dog named Mabel has sparked curiosity and debate on TikTok, as her owner questions whether she is deaf or simply ignoring him. The clip, shared by the user known as @jpb1478 on August 22, 2023, shows Mabel sitting quietly in her garden while her owner repeatedly calls her name. Despite the persistent calls, the dog offers minimal response, leading her owner to humorously wonder if she has been “faking it” for five years.
In the video, which has garnered over 313,000 views, Mabel’s owner can be heard calling her name multiple times. While the dog does not turn around, her ears do twitch slightly, which adds to the confusion. “No, deaf as a stone,” the owner remarks, as Mabel remains focused on her surroundings. The caption accompanying the video reads, “Is she faking it idk,” reflecting the owner’s light-hearted uncertainty.
Understanding Canine Deafness
To shed light on Mabel’s situation, Patrik Holmboe, head veterinarian at Cooper Pet Care, provided insights into identifying deafness in dogs. He explained that the ability to recognize hearing issues largely depends on the observer’s attentiveness and the dog’s level of deafness. “The obvious signs would be poor response to auditory cues, but this can be very difficult to assess, especially if an animal is only partially deaf,” Holmboe stated.
He pointed out that the most definitive test for deafness is the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response test. This method involves playing sounds to each ear while monitoring the brain’s response through sensors attached to the dog’s head. Such testing can provide clarity regarding a dog’s hearing capabilities.
The TikTok video has prompted a wide range of viewer reactions, with many sharing their theories and experiences related to Mabel’s unresponsiveness. In a previous video shared last month, the owner humorously experimented by speaking in “Pennsylvania Dutch” to see if it elicited a response, but Mabel remained unfazed.
Viewer Reactions and Insights
Comments on the viral video reflect the community’s engagement and creativity. One user speculated, “Maybe her name isn’t Mabel,” to which Mabel’s owner replied, “I did rescue her and never asked her name…” This exchange highlights the playful nature of the discussion surrounding Mabel’s behavior.
Others offered suggestions for prompting a response from the dog. “Her ears move. She hears you. You’re just not saying anything she wants to hear… Say TREAT!!! Watch her come running,” one viewer advised. Another chimed in, “Grab a bag of chips, she will hear you immediately,” indicating that certain sounds might capture Mabel’s attention more effectively.
As the debate continues, Mabel’s story has resonated with many pet owners, showcasing the often humorous and perplexing nature of canine behavior. The owner has invited additional insights from the TikTok community, further enriching the ongoing conversation.
In a world where pets often become beloved family members, Mabel’s situation serves as a reminder of the unique quirks that make each animal special. For those with amusing or heartwarming pet stories, Newsweek encourages submissions for their “Pet of the Week” feature at [email protected].
