Experts from the Center for Veterinary Research in Tandil (CIVETAN) and the Center for Research in Physics and Engineering of the Center of the Province of Buenos Aires (CIFICEN) have designed a collar for dogs that is used to treat internal and external parasites. What is more, prevents the transmission of diseases that affect pets and people, and can be useful as a mosquito repellent. In collaboration with PME Apilab, the aim of the project is to transfer the laboratory’s development to a production and commercial scale.
Unlike conventional treatments, which are often administered individually through pills, pipettes or baths, this system replaces the different methods used and condenses them into the necklace. It will not only be useful against fleas, ticks, mites and mosquitoes, but also against nematodes, round worms that can inhabit the intestine. Basically, the device gradually releases the drugs, which are distributed over the dog’s skin and slowly absorbed. The effect is expected to last at least a month.
It is worth mentioning that the project received funding from the Buenos Aires Technological Innovation Fund (FITBA) granted by the Ministry of Production, Science and Technological Innovation through the Undersecretary of Science, Technology and Innovation.
better prevent
Parasites are divided into two classes: external and internal. The former are organisms found on the animal’s skin and are called ectoparasites; some can be seen with the naked eye and others only under a microscope. Those found inside the animal’s body are endoparasites, classified into roundworms and flatworms.
Although they don’t look too offensive, parasites cause lesions in animals and can cause infectious diseases that are transmissible to people. Therefore, the collar is fundamental from a social and health point of view, in a context where pets are just another member of the family and are in permanent contact with them.
something more than friendship
In addition to being considered ‘man’s best friend’, many dogs are used to improve the quality of life and autonomy of people with disabilities or illnesses that limit their daily lives. Although guide dogs or guide dogs are commonly thought of for individuals with visual difficulties, they also accompany those with hearing impairment (trained to distinguish different sounds) and physical impairment (prepared to operate and move objects).
Another example in which dogs carry out care work is when they are used in alerts and emergencies, being able to help people with diseases such as epilepsy or diabetes, and ask for help if necessary. In turn, they can become therapy dogs to accompany autistic people and prevent or reduce stressful behaviors. On these occasions, establish an emotional bond with their owners, improve communication, sensory stimulation and a sense of security.
Although there is no specific breed to perform these tasks, it is recommended that it be docile, affectionate, meek and predictable.