Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Harness could "mitigate stress" in working dogs
dog wearing harness
For search and rescue dogs, the team added sensors that can detect environmental hazards such as gas leaks.

New wearable technology aims to extend and improve dogs' lives

US scientists have come up with a harness that can monitor a dog's physical and emotional state remotely. It is hoped the technology could extend and improve the lives of assistance dogs and those working in search and rescue.

A fully functional prototype has been developed by researchers from the North Carolina State University. Sensors on the harness monitor and interpret signals including posture, heart rate and body temperature.

As well as tracking the dog's physical wellbeing, the technology offers clues to its emotional state, for example if it is excited or stressed. The data is transmitted from the harness using a computer the size of a deck of cards. The harness also incorporates speakers and vibrating motors so the owner or handler can communicate with the dog.

In addition to these core features, it can be customised for specific functions. For example, researchers say the technology has important applications for working dogs.

"We’re very interested in addressing stress in working dogs, such as guide dogs for the blind," explains Sean Mealin, a PhD student at NC State and co-author of the paper.

Mr Mealin says the technology may help handlers "identify and mitigate stress" in their dogs, extending the length and quality of their lives.

"It’s an important issue. Particularly because guide dogs are bred and trained not to display signs of stress in their behaviour."

For search and rescue dogs, the team added sensors that can detect environmental hazards such as gas leaks, as well as cameras and microphones to gather further information.

Researchers say they will continue to refine the design of the harness and explore more applications for the technology. For example, the team are in the process of making improvements to the physiological sensors so the technology can be used in animal shelters and hospitals. Researchers have also carried out work to apply the platform to dog training.

"This platform is an amazing tool, and we’re excited about using it to improve the bond between dogs and their humans,” says Dr Barbara Sherman, co-author of the paper and clinical professor at NC State's College of Veterinary Medicine.

Image © North Carolina State University

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.