TV Going To The Dogs With New 24/7 Cable Channel

TV has finally gone to the dogs now that Dog TV has a cable channel dedicated specifically for our little canine friends.

Starting Aug. 1, pet owners will be able to pay for a monthly subscription for DOGTV.

CTV News stated that “The specialty channel, available through cable or online, offers “dog-friendly” programming which has been scientifically developed to provide the “right company” for dogs who’ve been left alone.”

The channel’s website claims that “DOGTV’s television programming meets a dog’s typical daily routine and helps prevent mental fatigue, depression and boredom.”

The channel has been developed with the help of a group of veterinarians and pet trainers.

Professor Nicholas Dodman, head of animal behavior at Tufts University stated, “The concept of some kind of TV programming that would be scientifically designed for dogs is a terrific idea and one that I would firmly support.”

Professor Lee Niel, from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, told CTV News that the idea of a TV channel for dogs is not that simple, because it is not yet clear how dogs perceive various types of stimuli.

The channel will show three types of video segments, each between three to six minutes long, that the site says are designed to be relaxing, stimulating or behavior-improving.

According to CTV News, Niel, who is not familiar with DOGTV, says she isn’t aware of any scientific evidence showing that TV is specifically beneficial to dog welfare. However, she says it’s not impossible.

“I suppose if a dog is actually engaged by the TV programs in a positive way, it has the potential to be beneficial by providing stimulation, but I wonder how many dogs this will actually apply to,” she said.

What do you think about the concept of TV for dogs? Do you think Dog TV is on to something?

[photo credit: Dandelion Salad via photopin cc]