Three design students from Hongsik University were the minds behind the Steady walking aid made for dogs. It functions similarly to a car seatbelt, creating dynamic support whilst allowing for an ample range of movement. It answers to disc issues, bone dislocation, and arthritis. Two of the designers, Jungmin Park and Chaewon Lee base the Steady aid on their own experiences having lived with and helped their elderly dogs.
They tapped Seungha Bark to ensure that the creation was secure and comfortable. Lee speaks to Dezeen about the thought process behind the design, stating "We discovered pain points where dogs using wheelchairs or other assistive devices couldn't mark freely or smell scents along the roadside. Therefore, we aimed to design a structure that utilizes the structure of seat belts to provide some degree of freedom but also firm support in the event of an impact."
Senior Pet-Friendly Walking Aids
The Steady Walking Aid is Meant to Assist Elderly Pets
Trend Themes
1. Dynamic Support - The Steady walking aid provides dynamic support for senior pets experiencing disc issues, bone dislocation, and arthritis.
2. Ample Range of Movement - Designed with an ample range of movement in mind, the Steady walking aid enables elderly dogs to move freely while still receiving support.
3. Utilizing Seat Belt Structure - The Steady walking aid leverages the structure of seat belts to provide both freedom and firm support to senior pets.
Industry Implications
1. Pet Accessories - The Steady walking aid falls within the pet accessories industry, catering to the growing demand for products that enhance the well-being of elderly pets.
2. Medical Devices - As a specialized walking aid for senior pets, the Steady presents opportunities for innovation within the medical devices industry.
3. Design and Innovation - The creation of the Steady walking aid by design students from Hongsik University showcases the potential for disruptive innovation in the design and innovation industry.