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Assistance dogs to use household appliances
dog using prototype buttons
New technology could cut the amount of time it takes to train assistance dogs.
Prototype designed to help dogs operate lights, appliances and doors

Assistance dogs may soon be able to operate doors, lights and household appliances thanks to new technology developed by scientists.

A research team from the Open University worked alongside Dogs for the Disabled to develop prototype buttons to help dogs open doors and drawers and press buttons.

It is hoped the new technology could make it easier for dogs to assist humans, whilst dramatically reducing the amount of time it takes to train assistance dogs. As the set of buttons can be installed in the home, researchers say this cuts down the amount of relearning the dog has to do in its new home.

The prototype is currently on display at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition which opens today (July 1) in London. Visitors to the free event will be able to watch dogs using the technology.

To help people understand the challenges faced by working dogs, visitors will be able to carry out tasks using "doggy vision" goggles and boxing gloves imitating paws.

The Technology for Dogs exhibit will also showcase other devices in development, such as the new diabetes alarm developed in partnership with Medical Detection Dogs.

The exhibition is open to the public free of charge and runs from today until Sunday, July 6.

 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
New form for online veterinary medicines retailers

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has produced a new online form for retailers wishing to sell veterinary medicines on the internet.

The form replace the previous Word version and is part of the VMD's ongoing commitment to digitise its processes. Anyone retailing prescription medicines online, including POM-V, POM-VPS and NFA-VPS categories, is lawfully required to register with the VMD before trading.

The change only applies to new applicants. Retailers already listed on the VMD's Register of Online Retailers or registered under the Accredited Internet Retailer Scheme (AIRS) do not need to do anything.