Can technology ever replace service animals? While robots can’t provide the interaction of real pets, they can serve as an adjunct to therapy, helping people with mobility & motor impairment issues. Animals have been found to have therapeutic benefits for humans. One study concluded that spending just 10 minutes with a dog can reduce pain levels, anxiety, depression, & even help reduce the effects of dementia. Studies also show that a robotic pet can provide similar health benefits to a live pet. Although the notion of robots conjures up cold and unfeeling machines, robotic pets have the ability to respond to humans in key areas, such as seeking eye contact, remembering faces & learning how to respond to a name. These furry friends can also bark, purr & wag their tails. And they don’t need to eat or take potty breaks! They also don’t rack up expensive veterinary bills. Tombot is the first and only manufacturer to successfully marry the very best of robotics technology with the lifelike artistic creativity of Sesame Street puppeteer, Jim Henson‘s Creature Shop. Its robot pup, Jennie, is designed to emulate a live puppy’s ability to provide comfort & companionship to anyone who can’t care for a real pet. Tombot is one of many companies creating mechanical furry friends. What was once seen as an expensive novelty is now a viable option for many therapy programs. Prices can go as high as $6,000, but Tombot’s, Jennie, is affordably priced around $450. Not too ruff a price tag.
