Robots instead of service dogs/

[k9mania]

Robotic Technology Takes Inspiration From Service Dogs

ScienceDaily (Oct. 26, 2008) — Service dogs, invaluable companions providing assistance to physically impaired individuals, are an elite and desired breed. Their presence in a home can make everyday tasks that are difficult - if not impossible - achievable, enhancing the quality of life for the disabled.

Yet with a cost averaging $16,000 per dog – not to mention the two years of training required to hone these skills – the demand for these canines’ exceeds their availability.
But what if these duties could be accomplished with an electronic companion that provides the same efficiency at a fraction of the cost?
Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have engineered a biologically inspired robot that mirrors the actions of sought-after service dogs. Users verbally command the robot to complete a task and the robot responds once a basic laser pointer illuminates the location of the desired action.



See rest of article at:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/10/081026101212.htm

[Labman]

Hummmmmm, can it fetch the phone from the other room or dial 911 after the owner has a siezure? How about open doors in a public building?

[LabMomHouston]

I think due to availability...it might be a good stand in until a dog becomes available or for instance for those who have severe dog allergies. But when it comes to companionship, robots will never come close to what dogs provide. And I agree with Lab...there are a number of things a robot could never do. I know as a parent if I had a disabled child...I would never want a robot to replace the love of a service dog.

[gsdmama]

will the robot give kisses and feel your pain and give you compassion and cuddle into you at night when you go to bed and be your protector in case of an home robbery and alert you if you are in need of medical assistance?

hummmmmm. i would take that over anything else.

[Jr_K9_Expert]

I don't see a problem with it if its an temporary alternative, I have read that robot dogs have almost the same as regular dogs, but my personal belief is that they could never replace the real thing. Just think about it, would you feel the same with robot children/caretakers?...food for thought :D