Body-Monitoring Harness Could Reduce Stress in Guide Dogs

Nov-01-14 A prototype harness that enhances communication between dogs and their owners by transmitting information about a dog's physical state could make life a bit easier for guide dogs.

The harness, developed by a team from North Carolina State University, is equipped with a variety of sensors that monitor the dog's body language and physiological state, including its body position, level of activity, heart rate and temperature. A small computer, about the size of a deck of cards, transmits the information wirelessly to an assigned device—allowing the owner or handler to have more information on the dog's emotional state as well as its physical health. The harness also allows the owner to send instructions to the dog via speakers and vibrating motors.

While the harness shows obvious use in search and rescue operations (it could be equipped with a microphone, gas-leak sensor and camera, for example), it could also help people who rely on service dogs keep a closer eye on the animal's stress level. This could be important, because according to Sean Mealin, co-author of the research paper: "…guide dogs are bred and trained not to display signs of stress in their behavior."

More Info about this Invention:

[DISCOVERY.COM]
[NEWS.NCSU.EDU]

---