Aussie researchers create world's 1st science app that looks after dog's wellbeing

Xinhua News Agency

text

An Australian university has come up with the world- first science app called DogLogBook which helps man's "best friend" attain happiness from puppyhood right up to old age.

A team from the University of Sydney Faculty of Veterinary Science, who designed the app, said on Tuesday that they were giving smart phone users a chance to eliminate their pets' stress by creating a happier lifestyle.

Users of the DogLogBook app will soon be able to log and track their dogs' activities, check on health-related issues or behaviors that may be problematic, such as barking at night or destroying the house while owners are away.

The app will cater to dogs of all ages and there is even a specific tool to monitor pups suffering from epilepsy, the university said in a statement.

Mia Cobb, a canine scientist who was part of the DogLogBook development team, said it was hoped that these combined features would help owners become more mindful of their dogs' overall happiness and wellbeing.

"DogLogBook may also help take some of the pressure off owners in identifying and acknowledging decline as dogs near the end of life," Cobb said.

"There is also a working dog channel in DogLogBook that logs training investment and tracks assessment outcomes, as well as assisting in the health management of dogs working in roles as diverse as scent detection, guide, livestock herding, guard dogs, and racing greyhounds," the university said.

Professor Paul McGreevy from the university's School of Life and Environmental Sciences said the app would be made free for users.

McGreevy said DogLogBook users would enable dog owners to gather and review real time data about their dog's healthcare, management and preferences in life.

DogLogBook will be launched on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) television programme called Catalyst on Tuesday night during the final instalment of a two-part series in which three dog owners had been put to the test to transform their dogs' behaviour in two weeks by just using the app.

(APD)