Twinkie is a cute eight-month-old Lab mix. He seems a bit shy a first but is actually a loving boy who wants to please. His favorite activities are walking and getting treats. Twinkie would be the perfect family dog because he loves to play.
You read that right. We may soon be able to understand what our dogs are woofing. I already know what Watson is thinking because he directs me to the refrigerator where his treats are. By just using his eyes and body cues, he has modified my behavior.
Now there is a product being developed by the Nordic Society for Invention and Discovery (NSID) that will translate dogs’ thoughts into language. “No More Woof” combines the latest technologies in three different tech-areas, electroencephalogram EEG-sensors, microcomputers and special brain-computer interface BCI software.
During the last decade scientists have made much progress in mapping out human brain functions, but no one had done this with dogs. NSID took on the challenge and found a spectrum of specific electrical signals in the brain that define feelings like hunger, fatigue, curiosity and the need to pee.
But first they had to develop a cap to fit most dogs’ heads. The cap had small electrodes, which attached to the head, to send signals to a microcomputer where they would be translated into language. So the next step was developing a computer program that translated the signals into language.
Though dogs think in a different way than human, thanks to EEG readouts, BCI and micro-computers, researchers were able to understand what a dog was feeling. Though stating that this project is still in the first stage, NSID now has three models ranging in prices from $65 to $1,200 (for information, see http://www.nomorewoof.com).
Wow, it sounds like science fiction, but just think how wonderful it would be to know when your dog was feeling ill or what food he really likes. Speaking of food, Watson is giving me the hungry eyes. If he could speak, I’m sure he’d say, “I need a treat.”
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have two darling puppies waiting to find a perfect home.
Policy, however, prohibits adopting out puppies or kittens under the age of six months to a home with children under five years of age. This is to protect both the children and the animal.
Call 775-7500 for details.
IN NEED OF
Vendors for Bark in the Park on May 18; we especially need food and coffee. Please call 775-423-7500 for details.
Sponsors for Bark in the Park; Your business will be featured on our T-shirts and at the event.
Emergency funds to replace the vaccination serum and medications that were ruined during CAPS’ power outage.
SHOUT OUT TO
Randy Sharp at Tedford Tires for fixing CAPS’ car and trailer. All tails are wagging for you!
Mary Morris for her donation to help replace the medicines lost during the power outage. A big bark to you!
COME SEE US
CAPS will be at Walmart on May 11 with the Kissin’ Booth and a puckered-up pooch. Come by and smooch our pooch. We have hoodies, shirts and hats. Be sure to check out our merchandise after you’ve hugged our pup.
DON’T FORGET
April Pet Holiday: National Pet Day; Dog Therapy Appreciation Day, April 11.
To mark your calendar for Bark in the Park on May 18. We would love to see you there!
Flower Tree Nursery will again be raffling a tree June 15, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets.
CONTACT CAPS
CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are really likeable. CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Contact me, jkwmil@outlook.com.
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