This week we spent most of our time researching and developing more of a solution. Our solution, we have concluded, is going to be a MRI scan, or a magnetic resonance imaging. It is a kind of scan that can produce detailed pictures of parts of the body, including the brain. A MRI is mainly used in humans, but we were thinking that we should take advantage of our resources, and use them on dogs, by scanning them, to see if there is OCD in their brain. After we figured out that a MRI was our plan, we spent the rest of our time researching. Although, it wasn't always our idea. We were originally going to do a test about genetics, but realized that wasn't the most practical, and it wasn't taking any steps in science.
Starting out in week one we began light reassured on our topic, which we decided was animal OCD, or more specifically OCD in domesticated animals. We found out that OCD in animals was thought to just be traits of the species or breed of animal, such as over grooming cats, or overly active horses. Another fact we discovered was that it is harder to diagnose animals due to the facts that animals are unable to talk to humans, or express and feeling in a way similar to humans. So one problem we could tackle would be the lack of testing that is standardized across the breeds and species. Another problem is lack of knowing ion the subject and the general lack of knowledge among animal owners. We could spread awareness and make an impact that way, or we could partner, for lack of a better word, with a veterinary clinic or just a vet to work towards finding a treatment for all domestic animals (or most species) or we could narrow down our project to just one animal and work with them.
This week, we have been doing research on Dog OCD, though mostly researching awareness of dog OCD and the current diagnosis test for Dog OCD. Our problem was that there is lack of awareness and lack of efficient testing for Dog OCD. We have been brainstorming all week for a solution and we have finally decided on creating a new better and efficient test for dog OCD, while at the same time, spreading awareness to dog owners and non-dog owners that dogs can actually have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We plan to contact veterinarians in our area that specialize in dog OCD or animal diseases, and talk to them and receive advice and guidance as to what should be in our new test. We have contacted one vet, but the receptionist said they have a limited number of doctors, and they are always busy. |
AuthorWe are 4 students who are interested in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in canines and wish to spread awareness and create a new test for diagnosing dog OCD. ArchivesCategories |