Animals at a shelter in Lowell, Massachusetts, got something new to play with Wednesday thanks to the final project in a college class.
Students in UMass Lowell’s “Introduction to Engineering Design” course made pet toys to help enrich the lives of animals at the Lowell Humane Society.
The project required students to study how each animal plays and what keeps them engaged. They used 3D printers, laser cutters and prototyping tools to bring their ideas to life.
Ninety freshmen took part in the project.
“I was absolutely happy to contribute to my community,” said freshman Aaron Berube. “That’s a very important thing that UMass Lowell teaches their students. That’s a very good thing, just for the community in general, and I’m happy to be promoting this to the animals and all.”
Enrichment can reduce stress and build confidence for animals waiting for a home, according to staff at the shelter.
For the students, the real test comes when the animals actually try their creations.
“It was definitely how I expected it to go,” Berube said. “It didn’t necessarily go to plan, and that’s OK, that happens in engineering.”
The toys that were created stay at the shelter, becoming part of the daily routine for animals who could use a little extra comfort.
