Virtual reality dog could help prevent dog bites
Summary
Dr Carri Westgarth, a Senior Lecturer in Human-Animal Interaction at the University of Liverpool explains: “Dog bites are a common public health issue affecting human-dog relationships. The team asked participants if they recognised and understood the signs of aggressive behaviours displayed by the virtual dog, including licking its lips, yawning, front paw lifting, backing away, barking, growling, and showing of teeth. These behaviours are referenced from the ‘Canine Ladder of Aggression’ which shows how a dog may behave when it is uncomfortable and does not want to be approached. The model was developed in collaboration with the University’s Virtual Engineering Centre (VEC) and supported and funded by Dogs Trust. This digital tool enables the user to interact and learn with a realistic virtual dog within a safe and controlled sandpit environment.” Paula Boyden, Dogs Trust Veterinary Director, said: “We were delighted to fund the University of Liverpool DAVE Pilot, its potential to provide a fascinating insight into human-canine interactions is clear.