Abstract:
Use of new information technologies in improving animal welfare is an under-explored area of research. This poster draws attention to animal welfare initiatives that use digital innovation to improve effectiveness.
The Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission is the independent regulator of the greyhound racing industry in NSW and has as its key function protecting the welfare of greyhounds. The Commission has sought to harness the potential of new information technologies to improve the effectiveness of its animal welfare programs.
In particular, its eTrac system uses data from a greyhound’s microchip to monitor the whereabouts and well-being of registered greyhounds. Data from a greyhound’s microchip is uploaded directly into the greyhound register when a greyhound is scanned. Greyhound owners and trainers are required to present greyhounds for scanning at specified intervals, allowing the Commission to ensure proof of life and accuracy in record-keeping.
The Commission is also trialling the use of nose print recognition to identify registered greyhounds. As the nose ridge markings of a dog are unique in the same way as a human fingerprint, these markings can be used to identify individual animals. Nose print recognition uses AI technology to produce a reliable, non-invasive form of identification. This is the first use of nose print recognition technology in Australia and has potential for application to other species.
Race Well provides information about prohibited substances and the contents of popular medications and supplements in a smartphone app. The app allows greyhound owners and trainers to access information in a convenient format to avoid inadvertent administration of prohibited substances to their greyhounds.