The Dog Says…
Growing up, we all had that classic See N’ Say toy. The spinner would jump from animal to animal where a friendly farmer would feed our ever growing curiosity. Ducks quaked, the cow mooed, and the dog went “woof”, all the standard noises of the animal kingdom. That may soon all change thanks to Northern Arizona University professor Dr. Con Slobodchikof. Through his groundbreaking company Zoolingua, Professor Slobodchikof is developing an algorithm that will allow the average person to translate their furry friend’s chorus of sounds into English. Rather than asking Spot IF he wants to eat, we may soon be asking him WHAT he wants to eat.
The algorithm first came into fruition while Slobodchikof studied prairie dogs. Yes, those same goofy critters that are known more for their wack-a-mole tendencies than their intelligence. For decades Slobodchikof observed the body language and unique calls of these desert dogs, eventually creating an apparatus that turns the intricate noises into their human counterpart. Using a similar approach, he plans to create an instrument for everyday use with pets. Dr. Slobodchikof and his team of experts are currently compiling a master list of canine interactions and communications to study. Every wag, bark, and howl will be used to create a new algorithm in which the user can plug in these movements and sounds to create an English translation. Slobodchikof stresses that we must stop anthropomorphizing animals for the best results going forward. In his book, “Chasing Doctor Dolittle: Learning the Language of Animals”, Dr. Slobodchikof preaches, “For us, the idea that other animals have language is a bridge back to the natural world … “Us” and “Them” … are not very different at all.”.
As the field of animal communication and AI technology fuse and grow, so will Slobodchikof’s project. When choosing which pet to plug into their algorithm first, it is no wonder why man’s best friend was the perfect candidate. Besides having the uncanny ability to sense their owner’s mood, some breeds can understand hundreds of human vocal commands. Upon further review felines were considered too conniving and goldfish…well you understand. Like your four-legged friend, we here at The Lab World Group remain loyal all the way through. We offer help managing your unwanted assets while bringing you the highest return for your surplus lab equipment. Through the whole process we’ll remain devoted by your side. To get the ball rolling give us a call today at (617)-999-5746!
