Dr. Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas is a proud owner of a 10-year-old Labrador dog, and has developed a video calling device for pets. The 'DogPhone' is a small ball toy, similar to what dogs enjoy playing with on their own. The DogPhone is unique in the sense that it contains a sensor that connects to a laptop, and when the ball is moved, the DogPhone makes a video call to the pet's owner, Dr. Hirskyj-Douglas.
The motivation for the DogPhone came from the increasingly high number of dogs with separation anxiety because of the pandemic, namely 'Pandemic Puppies.' These dogs have lived their entire lives with their owner and became dependent on the intimate interaction with their owners. With the DogPhone, the dog can see and hear its owner on demand just by playing with a toy ball. Additionally, incoming calls to the laptop can be answered by playing with the DogPhone ball.
The DogPhone is not available for public purchase at this time.
Pet-Specific Calling Devices
Researchers Have Developed 'DogPhone,' a Functional Phone for Pets
Trend Themes
1. Pet Video Calling Devices - The trend of developing video calling devices exclusively for pets is on the rise, presenting opportunities for further innovation in the pet tech industry.
2. Smart Pet Toys - The development of smart pet toys that can interact with owners and provide entertainment for pets is a growing trend with potential for disruptive innovation in the pet industry.
3. Tech Solutions for Pet Separation Anxiety - As more pets suffer from separation anxiety, the trend of developing tech solutions such as the DogPhone provides opportunities for innovation in the pet industry that address this issue.
Industry Implications
1. Pet Tech Industry - The pet tech industry can benefit from developing more innovative solutions to address pet separation anxiety and provide owners with new ways to interact with their pets remotely.
2. Smart Toy Industry - The smart toy industry can capitalize on the growing trend of tech-driven pet toys and develop toys that can mimic human interaction and provide entertainment for pets.
3. Telecommunications Industry - The telecommunications industry can explore developing communication devices specifically for pets, creating new revenue streams in the pet tech industry and addressing new market segments.