An innovation in Peru promises to revolutionize the well-being of pets with amputations. Two students and two graduates from the Bioengineering and Mechatronics careers at the University of Engineering and Technology (UTEC) launched Dog Motion Studio.
They develop customized prosthetics for dogs using 3D printing.
Dog Motion Studio: the innovation in Peru that will change the lives of disabled dogs
The project began with “Jack”, a dog that lost a front leg due to a tumor. Thanks to a prosthesis adapted to his anatomy through digital scanning, Jack regained some of his mobility and quality of life.
What 3D prosthetics for dogs look like. (Photo: Dog Motion social media).
This experience prompted the team to expand their initiative to benefit more pets with amputations, combining science, design, and technology.
How does the creation of these prosthetics work?
The development process of prosthetics at Dog Motion Studio is based on a rigorous and personalized methodology:
- Personalized evaluation: in collaboration with the veterinarian Pet Friendly, each dog is individually examined to understand their specific needs.
- Anatomical scanning: portable scanning technology is used to obtain an exact digital model of the leg or the amputated area.
- Digital design: specialists design the prosthesis using programs like CAD and Blender, adjusting it according to ergonomics, type of amputation, and the dog’s activity level.
- 3D printing: Resistant and lightweight materials such as ABS, PETG, or TPU are used to print the prosthesis, which is then coated with soft silicones to prevent discomfort.
This biomechanical and personalized approach has been pioneering in Peru, allowing dogs like Jack to regain functional mobility. Furthermore, the production time has been significantly reduced: from five months in the first case to one month for subsequent cases. The team now aims to manufacture prosthetics in less than a week.
The future vision of Dog Motion Studio
What 3D-made prosthetics look like. (Photo: Dog Motion social media).
Dog Motion Studio aims to expand its impact, producing over 100 prosthetics per year for the entire country and developing other devices such as orthoses and splints. They are also working on an open guide to facilitate the replication of the project in regions with limited resources.
“Our project stands out for the biomechanical approach and digital customization we provide to each case,” explained Richard Calderón, a Bioengineering graduate from UTEC, to local media. “We have been recognized as the first team in Peru to apply digital scanning and 3D printing technologies to develop functional canine prosthetics,” he added.
With plans to bring this innovation to all of Latin America, this group has shown that technology not only transforms human lives but can also leave indelible marks on those of our pets.
