Research looks at allowing dogs to control their surroundings

Rescue kennels could become "canine-operated", as the Dogs Trust funds research into features such as paw-controlled central heating, snout-operated doors and bark-sensitive privacy screens.

The charity has awarded £14,700 to the project, which will determine whether canine-triggered technology could improve the behaviour of rescue dogs, making it easier for them to find new homes.

Heading up the project is Dr Clara Mancini, head of the animal-computer interaction laboratory at the Open University.

During the project, she will be focusing on giving the dogs control over key parts of their lives in kennels, such as temperature and food control, privacy, lighting and access to exercise areas.

The Dogs Trust is keen to see whether the technology could actually improve the mental health of the animals.

"We want to counter the misconception that rescue kennels are cold, unwelcoming places full of sad dogs," said Paula Boyden, the charity's veterinary director.
 
"Welfare is our priority, always, and currently we invest heavily in designing our kennels to be as comfortable as possible, but what if we went one step further...?

"Dr Mancini’s research is full of exciting potential. We need to discover whether kennel design might allow the dog to control his environment, such as temperature, bedding, and outdoor access, and we believe all of these things could make for happier – and therefore more rehomable – dogs."

Research will be carried out at the charity's rehoming centre in Loughborough over a six-month period. While it will be some time before new technologies are put into place as a result of the findings, the Dogs Trust feels the project could improve dog welfare in the future.

Images © Dogs Trust