Ford has adapted its in-car audio technology to create a noise cancelling kennel to keep pets calm during firework displays.
With UK animal charity the RSPCA reporting that 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks, the car manufacturer saw a niche in the market.
The audio technology it has deployed is similar to that used in cars and headphones. Microphones inside the kennel detect the sound of fireworks to prompt the audio system to emit opposing frequencies to reduce or even eliminate the noise. High density cork is used to sound proof the kennel.
Dog trainer Graeme Hall said: “Many animals find fireworks scary – and compared to people, dogs can hear things that are four times further away, and across a much wider range of frequencies. Preparing in advance of firework displays is the key – and part of that is to identify a place where your pets feel safe and happy.”
Lyn West, brand content manager, marketing communications, Ford of Europe, said: “We wondered how the technologies we use in our cars could be applied to help in other situations. Could dogs enjoy quieter New Year’s Eve celebrations through the application of our Active Noise Control system?”