Ford Motors have developed a noise-cancelling kennel that uses similar technology to that found in cars and headphones to protect sensitive canine ears and eliminate their fear when they hear fireworks.
It is estimated that 45 per cent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks – causing distress to owners and their families too, and as the New Years festivities approach many owners worry about the impact this joyous evening will have on there fur babies.
One solution could be the new prototype kennel designed by Ford, which combines noise-canceling technology, sound-dampening cork, and an automatic door to give our canine friends a quiet retreat from the festivities.
Once microphones inside the prototype kennel detect the sound of the fireworks, a built-in audio system emits opposing frequencies that in effect cancels out the noise completely – or at least reduces it significantly. High-density cork, ideal for sound proofing was an integral part of the design. The result? No more stress for your pet. A concept for now, but with the potential to mean a much better start to the year, both for your dog – and for you.
“Many animals find fireworks scary – and compared to people, dogs can hear things that are four times further away, and across a much wider range of frequencies. Preparing in advance of firework displays is the key – and part of that is to identify a place where your pets feel safe and happy,” said Graeme Hall, “The Dogfather”, one of the UK's best dog trainers who has helped 5,000 dogs and their owners with behavioural problems.
The idea was inspired by the noise-cancelling technology that Ford has introduced to the Edge SUV, that helps to ensure quieter journeys for drivers and passengers. When microphones pick up high levels of noise from the engine or transmission, this is counteracted using opposing sound waves from the car’s audio system.
At present the noise-cancelling kennel is just a prototype and is one of the first in a series of Ford initiatives – called Interventions – that applies automotive know-how to help solve everyday problems, so it is unclear if this revolutionary design will ever make it to production but as a dog owner I do hope so!
