Animal Rescue Product System

Politecnico di Milano
Scuola del Design
Design & Engineering
AA 2017/2018
Elaborato di Tesi
Laureando: Belén Corradi
Relatore: Silvia Ferraris
Co-Relatore: Riccardo Negri
 ABSTRACT
This thesis delves into the evacuation pro-
tocols applied in major disasters, more spe-
cifically in the retrieval and medical atten-
tion of companion animals left behind. It’s
intent is to assist rescuers and veterinary ex-
perts by developing a product that would
serve save domestic animals.
For this reason the research deepens in
the protocols and actions that take place
during a catastrophe, the contingency of
disease spread and the concept of One
Health, the characteristics of pets and their
demographics, intensive care therapies
and existing systems of medical aid.
The main goal of this project was to design
a product system that fills the needs in each
step of the rescue, from the recovery to the
2 3
medical support, and finally to the release.
This was achieved by generating a cage
that allows the secure contention of the
rescued animal, that in addition could
transform into a medical intensive care
unit with an oxygen supply, as the state of
the patient progresses and becomes more
complex.
Questa tesi approfondisce i protocolli di
evacuazione applicati durante le maggiori
catastrofi, più specificamente nel recupero
e nell’assistenza medica degli animali do-
mestici dispersi. L’obiettivo è assistere i soc-
corritori e i veterinari esperti, sviluppando
un prodotto in grado di salvare gli animali
da compagnia.
Per questo motivo, la ricerca si concentra
sui protocolli e le azioni che vengono messe
in atto durante una catastrofe, il controllo
della diffusione di malattie e il concetto di
One Health (Salute Unica). Vengono ap-
profondite le caratteristiche degli animali e
le loro demografiche, le terapie intensive e
i sistemi di assistenza medica già praticati.
L’obiettivo principale di questo lavoro è
progettare un sistema di prodotti che sod-
disfi le necessità dei soccorsi in ogni fase:
dal ritrovamento all’assistenza medica e,
infine, alla dimissione.
Il risultato è una gabbia che permette
il contenimento dell’animale salvato in
condizioni di sicurezza e che inoltre può
essere trasformata in un’unità di terapia
medica intensiva con una fornitura di os-
sigeno, nel caso lo stato del paziente peg-
giorasse in una condizione più complessa
da gestire.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 1

0. INTRODUCTION 3. ZOONOTIC DISEASES AND PREVENTION

3.1 Causes
1.0 NATURAL AND MAN-MADE DISASTERS 3.2 Prevention Protocols
1.1 Disasters Consequences
1.2 Diseases Propagation in Disasters 4. PETS
1.2.1 Prevention of Diseases After Disasters 4.1 World’s Largest Populations of Pet
1.2.2 Veterinary Care and Vector Control 4.2 Pet distribution
4.3 Pet Ownership Statistics
2. ANIMAL DISASTER RESPONSE PROTOCOLS 4.4 Most Popular Dog Breeds
2.1 Wild Life and Companion Animals in Disasters 4.5 Height
2.2 Five Protocol Phases for Animal Rescue 4.6 Weight
2.2.1 Response 4.7 Temperature
2.3 Veterinary Medical Care in Emergencies
2.4 Rescue Organizations and their Work 5. ICU & OXYGEN THERAPY CAGES
2.5 Significance of Rescue 5.1 Prevailing Treatments in ICU
2.6 Considerations 5.2 How Oxygen Therapy Works for Animals

4 5
 5.3 Existing Oxygen Therapy for Animals 2. Project
5.3.2 On the field treatment
5.3.3 Improvised treatment 3. Base
5.4 Oxygen Cages for Animals 3.1 General Dimensions
5.4.1 Applications 3.2 Components
5.4.2 Properties of Cages on the Market 3.3 Use on its own
3.4 Aids to Facilitate use
6. OXYGEN SYSTEMS 3.5 Production Process
6.1 Oxygen Tanks and Lines 3.6 Material Selection
6.2 Nebulizer & Compressor
6.3 Products Life Cycle 4. Rescue Cage
4.1 General Dimensions
4.2 Components
PART 2 4.3 Cage in Use
4.4 Aids to facilitate use
1. Brief 4.5 Production Process
1.1 Product Involvement in Rescue 4.6 Material Selection
1.2 Requirements 4.6.1 Plastic Parts
1.3 Constraints 4.6.2 Textiles
1.4 Product’s Life Cycle Analysis
1.5 Concept

6 7
 5. Intensive Care Unit 7. System Expansion
5.1 General Dimensions
5.2 Components 8. List of Figures
5.3 Use
5.4 Aids to facilitate use 9. References

5.5 Production Process

5.6 Material Selection
5.6.1 Plastic Selection
5.6.2 Textiles

6. Sequence of use
6.1 Use
6.1.1 Product system arrival to location
6.1.2 Set up of cages
6.1.3 Rescue
6.1.4 Set up of medical tents
6.1.5 Veterinary care
6.1.6 Demobilization
6.1.7 Repair
6.2 Assembly

8 9
PART 1

PART 1
Fig. 1
 0. INTRODUCTION
The ONU reports an average of 335 natural
disasters each year and 4.000 million hu-
mans affected by them (1) . But it’s not only
men that suffer the consequences of this
catastrophes, animals do too.
Animals have had an important role in hu-
man life all through our history. We have
been dependant on them for food, trans-
portation, clothing and even for religious
worship. However, for the last few centuries
our reliance on animals has been trans-
(1) “Emergency Events Database (EM-DAT)” Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED)
[1988].
12
fered to other aspects of our lives; com-
panionship.
And when emergencies happen compan-
ion animals have an inability to provide for
themselves, relaying heavily on their hu-
mans for aid.
In the past few years, several nations have
included pets in their rescuing and evac-
uation programs, generating a change in
the established protocols.
It is important to mention the “One Health”
approach, which recognizes that the
health of humans is inextricably linked to
the health of animals and their ecosystems.
It’s strategy is based on the collaboration
of multiple specialists and their disciplines,
such physicians, veterinarians and ecolo-
gists (2) . By acting towards the safety of the
animals in emergency situations helps the
human population.
(2) Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Centre for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious
Diseases (NCEZID). U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
13
 1. NATURAL AND MAN-MADE DISASTERS

Natural disasters are catastrophic events
with atmospheric, geologic and hydrologic
origins. They include earthquakes, volcanic
eruptions, landslides, tsunamis, floods and
drought. Natural disasters can have rap-
id or slow onset, and serious health, social
and economic consequences (3).
When the disasters are due to carelessness
of human or mishandling of dangerous
equipment’s they are called man-made
disasters. They include chemical spills and
groundwater contamination, explosion
and civil unrest, between others. Mostly
such disasters cause injuries, diseases and
casualties where they occur (4).

(3) “Epidemics after Natural Disasters. Emerging Infectious Diseases” Watson, J. T., Gayer, M., & Connolly, M. A.
[2007].
(4) “Natural and Man-Made Disaster and their Impact on Environment” by Nikita for biologydiscussion.com
[2017].

14 15
 1.1 Disasters Consequences
During the past two decades, natural dis-
asters have killed millions of people, ad-
versely affecting the lives of at least one
billion more people and resulting in sub-
stantial economic damage (5).
Other than causing deaths and severe in-
juries they can potentially Increased risk
of communicable diseases, damage to
the health facilities, damage to the water
(5) “Communicable diseases following natural disasters: Risk assessment and priority interventions” World Health
Organization [2006].
(6) “Disasters and their consequences for public health” Giorgadze T, Maisuradze I, Japaridze A, Utiashvili Z,
Abesadze G. [2011].
16
systems, food shortage and population
movements (6).
Developing countries are more affected as
a result of their lack of resources, infrastruc-
ture and disaster preparedness systems.
Every year there are about 600 important,
according to human standards, natural
disasters worldwide in areas inhabited by
humans.
Fig. 5
1.2 Diseases Propagation in Disasters
The potential impact of transmissible dis- fected by the natural disaster. Crowding,
eases is consider to be highly possible in the inadequate water and sanitation, and
turmoil that follows natural disasters. The poor access to health services increase the
spread of endemic diseases and the risk risk of communicable disease transmission.
of outbreaks are dependent upon many
factors that should be evaluated and risk Although the overall risk of communicable
assessed for each case. disease outbreaks is lower than often per-
ceived, the risk of transmission of certain
The risk of outbreaks is in direct association endemic and epidemic-prone diseases
with the size, health status and living con- can increase following natural disasters (7).
ditions of the population that has been af-
(7) “Epidemics after Natural Disasters. Emerging Infectious Diseases” Watson, J. T., Gayer, M., & Connolly, M. A.
[2007].
17
 1.2.1 Prevention of Diseases After Disasters

An important aspect to lower the adverse
health effects brought by natural disasters
is a multidisciplinary approach and an im-
mediate treatment of communicable dis-
eases.
The establishment, implementation, and
continuous monitoring of minimum stand-
ards for water safety security, sanitation,
shelter, and hygiene is critical for health
promotion after disasters. Establishing a sur-
veillance and monitoring system of disease
and the threat of outbreaks should be put
into effect.
The emergency response for controlling
communicable disease includes: Emer-
gency medical care, provision of shelter
and site planning, water and sanitation,
safe food preparation, nutrition, case man-
agement, medical supplies, veterinary
care and vector control. Moreover, health
education and providing the health of hu-
manitarian workers is a critical point (8).

Fig. 7

1.2.2 Veterinary Care and Vector Control

Natural disasters, particularly meteorolog- hosts such as animals, a weakened pub-

ical events such as cyclones, hurricanes
and flooding, can affect vector breeding
sites and vector-borne disease transmis-
sion.
The crowding of infected and susceptible
Fig. 6
lic health infrastructure and interruptions
of ongoing control programmes are all
risk factors for contact, airborne and vec-
tor-borne disease transmission. Having a
veterinary control is fundamental for the
well-being of the human population (9).

(8) “Prevention of communicable diseases after disaster: A review”. Jafari, N., Shahsanai, A., Memarzadeh, M., (9) “Epidemics after Natural Disasters. Emerging Infectious Diseases” Watson, J. T., Gayer, M., & Connolly, M. A.
& Loghmani, A. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences : The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical [2007].
Sciences [2011].

18 19
 2. ANIMAL DISASTER RESPONSE PROTOCOLS
The sheltering of animals is a fundamental
component during the response to natural
disasters.
Though animal rescue organizations have
often work through out this catastrophes, it
wasn’t till 2005 hurricane Katrina that it was
brought into attention the needs of families
with animals, as it was captured via media
outlets the dilemma of families not allowed
to evacuate with their pets.
(10) “Hurricane Katrina: Perceptions of the Affected” Fritz Institute [2006].
20
According to a Fritz Institute survey, ap-
proximately 44% of the people who did not
evacuate for Hurricane Katrina stayed be-
cause they did not want to leave their pets
behind (10) . Subsequently, national emer-
gency management officials worldwide
have incorporated an evacuation and
sheltering protocol for animals.
This protocols vary according to the coun-
try or organization that leads them, but
they often involve aspect portrait next.
 2.1 Wild Life and Companion Animals in Disasters
The negative impact of a natural disas- massive floods of 2011 and 2013 in Austral- The following are some examples of cases .Volcano eruption in Chaitén, Chile: An-

ter on wildlife is usually brought on by the ia. in which a large number of animals have imal evacuation was initially prohibited.

harm to their habitat rather than the ani- died due to abandonment or neglect af- The governments in Chile and Argentina

mals themselves. However, there are times On the other hand pets and other domes- ter a natural disaster: eventually succumbed to popular pressure

when animals are unable to escape the ticated animals are incredibly vulnerable and allowed animal evacuation. 10,310

scope of the disaster due to its size or na- during a natural disaster since they rely .Hurricane Katrina: the government pro- animals were evacuated.

ture. Floods and wild fires are two of the gravely on their guardians. hibited the evacuation of animals and de-

most difficult occurrences for wild animals nied them access to shelters. It has been .Earthquake in Lima, Peru: Resulted in the

to survive (11) (12). Animals who are used by humans for food, estimated that about 600,000 companion deaths of thousands of animals, who were

labour, or other purposes are usually left animals died. not taken into account in the govern-

Some cases wild life rescues after natural behind, leaving populations that economi- ment’s contingency plans.

disasters have been documented. A large cally relay on them in serious disadvantag-
number of animals were retrieved in the es.

Major Causes Of Decline In Wildlife Populations Worldwide

Fig. 9 Fig. 10

(11) “Animals in natural disasters” Animal Ethics [Retrived 2017].

(12) “Primary Causes Of Wildlife Population Declines Worldwide” Amber Pariona [2016].

22 23
 2.2 Five Protocol Phases for Animal Rescue(13)
The national alliance defines the five step
protocol as follows:
1- Preparation: The Preparation phase
should occur prior to a disaster event. The
intent of the preparation phase is to plan
coordinated animal relief efforts with area
stakeholders and emergency responders
2- Alert: During the Alert phase, a disaster
is imminent. The intent of this phase is to
ensure that contacts among agencies are
made and plans are put into place to pre-
phase is to coordinate evacuation and res-
cue, housing and care of animals immedi-
ately after a disaster.
4- Recovery: The intent of the recovery
phase is to ‘return to normal’ by re-uniting
owners and pets, collecting stray animals in
affected communities, disposing of dead
animals, and closing temporary shelters.
5- Demobilization: Demobilization occurs
after the disaster response. The intent of
the Demobilization phase is to stand down Fig. 12

pare for impending disaster. equipment and personnel and determine

2.2.1 Response
lessons learned that can contribute to the
3- Response: The intent of the Response plan improvement. During the response there are a series of 3- Veterinary Public Health:
steps to be followed: .Risk to Human Health and Preventive
Measures.
1- Inter-agency Communication and Com- .Vaccination Practices for Emergency
municating with the Public. Shelters.

2- Evacuation and Sheltering: 4- Veterinary Medical Care:

.Shelter. .Temporary Clinics: Veterinary and Animal
.Animal Intake. isolation areas, Medical and Drug storage
.Temporary Animal Housings. (keep locked at all times), General stor-
age, Kennel areas.
Fig. 11
.Veterinary Assistant
(13) “Emergency Animal Sheltering Best Practices” National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergen-
cy Programs [2012].

24 25
 2.3 Veterinary Medical Care in
Emergencies
For Dogs:
Upon arrival, each animal should be eval-
uated by a veterinarian/vet tech and tri-
aged according to a system of priorities.
Depending on the unique circumstances
of individual disasters or emergency re-
sponses, the care provided for these ani-
mals may include:
.A physical exam
.Basic vaccinations
.De-worming
.Flea treatment
.Treatment for injuries
.Minimal grooming
.Microchipping
Animals in a disaster or emergency situ-
ation are expected to be under a lot of
stress. The goal is to minimize their stress,
while providing them the best possible
care under the circumstances. Use caution
and be aware of surroundings at all times.
Fig. 13
26
For Cats:
Cats in an emergency are generally very
stressed. They have been removed from
their natural environment. Even if they are
sheltered with their human companion,
cats will react with more stress than dogs
when taken from their home and “comfort
zone.” Often, even a cat that appears to
be fractious or “feral” when first brought in
to an emergency shelter will calm down
within 24-48 hours if allowed peace and
quiet, with time to adjust to its new sur-
roundings.
They will need to be housed separate-
ly from dogs and other species. Cats will
need a crate large enough to hold a litter
box, food and water bowls, and ideally a
place to “hide.” The usual rule should be
“one cat per enclosure”, unless it is a moth-
er with kittens; a litter of orphaned kittens;
or at owner’s request for bonded pairs.
Fig. 14
27
 2.4 Rescue Organizations and their Work
Veterinaries and animal protection ad-
vocates have are important in the disas-
ter preparedness and response activities
regarding animals. They work under the
direction of emergency management
officials as part of an integrated system.
They may be asked to prepare their com-
munities or respond to disasters that affect
animals outside their areas. Part of the task
may be to prepare for, and operate, an
emergency animal shelter, translocate to
the disaster area for the retrieval of left be-
hind animals, care for injured animals, be-
tween others. The planning for this should
always be integrated into the larger com-
munity planning matrix. Recognizing this,
and working within the emergency man-
agement system, is crucial to the success
of the emergency animal sheltering pro-
cess.

Fig. 16

International Fund for Animal Welfare:

Is one of the largest animal welfare and
conservation charities in the world. IFAW
dispatches emergency response teams
to any area around the world where ani-
mals are in distress due to natural disasters,
human-caused catastrophes and cruelty
cases all over the world. Their efforts aim
Fig. 15
to help both companion animals and wild-
life, get the care they need so they can
be returned to their homes or natural hab-
itats. Through their Emergency Relief Net-
works, they’ve established global partner-
ships to ensure no animals are left behind.

28 29
 Global Alliance for Animals and People:

Their mission is to “improve the quality of life
of underprivileged animals and people”.
Their disaster relief division was developed
after recognizing a dire need for organized
rescue efforts in Latin America. The lack of
any kind of protective legislation for an-
imals, leaves the post-disaster chaos no
room for the provisioning and care of in-
jured or homeless pets, livestock and wild-
life. They provide medical care and tem-
porary shelter for displaced animals, with
an end goal of reuniting them with their
families. They also work with local govern-
ment agencies to develop disaster prepar-
edness plans for people with animals.

Fig. 17
World Vets:

They develops, implement and manage
international veterinary and disaster relief
programs to help animals and educate
people.
They give direct animal care, capaci-
ty building for long term impact, estab-
lishing and providing training for specific
treatment protocols for veterinary cas-
es unique to disaster. Herd health and
public health issues, zoonotic disease
prevention as well as direct animal care.
Fig. 18

30 31
 2.5 Significance of Rescue
Populations with pets have increased in
the past decades, meaning more people
may stay behind if not allowed to evacu-
ate with their animal companions. Giving
the population in crisis the certainty that
their companion animals are going to be
well cared for is essential for their own safe-
ty and evacuation.
Human health is tightly linked to animal
health. Hence, the propagation of animal
diseases after disasters can seriously affect
the well being of human populations. Vet-
erinary assistance is fundamental.
32
2.6 Considerations
Generally, in a disaster all animals in an sanitary conditions. In some cases this lo-
Wild animals are components of ecosys-
emergency shelter are considered “dis- cations can be only tents mounted on the
tems, this means that the decrease in pop-
placed, owned animals (or property)” – ground.
ulations of species during the aftermaths of
not strays. This may limit what treatment,
a disaster can cause changes in that envi-
vaccinations or other care can be given Human safety always comes first. Animals
ronment.
to the animals without the owner’s permis- that should be quarantined should be kept
sion, as well as whether the animal can be isolated from people and other animals to
The loss of farm and labour animals after
relocated. prevent the spread of diseases (15).
disasters can cause serious economical
trouble to human populations that are de-
Facilities dedicated for sheltering may be Animals that arrive to the shelters are usu-
pendant to them.
in bad conditions after the disaster, with- ally stressed and should be cared carefully,
out access to water, electricity and basic as they can react aggressively even with
Multidisciplinary work-teams in humani-
tarian actions are more successful and there owners present (15).
achieve better and faster results.
(14) “Animals in public evacuation centres: Emergency Preparedness and Response” Centre for Disease Con-
trol and Prevention [2014].
(15) “Animal Health Hazards of Concern During Natural Disasters” United States Department of Agriculture, An-
imal and Planet Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Service [February 2002].
Fig. 19
33
 3. ZOONOTIC DISEASES AND PREVENTION
A zoonotic disease or zoonosis (plural is zo-
onoses) is any disease of animals that can
be transmitted to people.
Diseases such as the Ebola virus or sal-
monellosis are zoonoses. HIV was once a
zoonotic disease transmitted to humans,
though it has evolved to a separate hu-
man-only disease (16).
Most human diseases originated in animals.
Nevertheless, only diseases that involve an-
imal to human transmission are considered
direct zoonosis.
Direct zoonosis means the transmission of
a diseases from an animal to a human by
the course of action of ways such as air, as
in the case of influenza, or bites, for rabies.

Zoonoses are caused by different disease When humans infect animals, it is called re-
pathogens, for instance viruses, bacteria, verse zoonosis or anthroponosis (17).
fungi or parasites. Of 1,415 pathogens that
are known to infect humans, 61% were zo-
onotic.

(16) “AIDS as a zoonosis? Confusion over the origin of the virus and the origin of the epidemics”. Marx PA, Ape-
trei C, Drucker E. Journal of medical primatology [2004].
(17) “Reverse zoonotic disease transmission (zooanthroponosis): a systematic review of seldom-documented
human biological threats to animals” Messenger AM, Barnes AN, Gray GC [2014[.

34 35
 3.1 Causes
Zoonotic transmission can happen in any
context in which there is contact with or
36
consumption of an animal, animal prod-
uct, or animal derivative such as vaccines.
Fig. 21
Some of the most usual causes are the fol-
lowing:
.Pets: They can transmit a number of dis-
eases. Dogs and cats are routinely vacci-
nated against diseases that also humans
can contract, as in the case of Rabies.
.Contamination of food or water supply:
Many food outbreaks can be linked to zo-
onotic pathogens. Many different types of
Fig. 22
food can be contaminated that have an
animal origin.
.Farming: Contact with farm animals can
lead to disease in farmers or others that
come into contact with infected animals.
.Insect vectors: Transmission can happen
through an intermediate species which
carry the disease without getting infected.
37
 3.2 Prevention Protocols
Preventing the transmission of zoonotic dis-
eases from animals to veterinary person-
nel is the first component of a safety and
health program.
For its prevention the 3 major routes of
pathogen transmission should be identified
and controlled.
Contact Transmission: Many zoonotic path-
ogens are transmitted from animals to a
human host by contact, either directly from
animals or indirectly through the environ-
ment. Direct transmission may occur during
examination, treatment, and handling of
animals. Indirect transmission involves con
tact with a contaminated intermediate
(18) “Compendium of Veterinary Standard Precautions for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Veterinary Person-
Fig. 23
nel” National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians Veterinary Infection Control Committee [2015].
38
objects such as cages, equipment, work-
place surfaces, and soiled laundry.
Airborne transmission: It occurs when small
droplets or particles that are created re-
main suspended in the air for extended
periods and are inhaled. These small drop-
lets or particles can be disseminated by air
currents in a room or through a facility.
Vector Bourne Transmission: Vector-borne
transmission occurs when vectors such as
mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks transmit patho-
gens. Animals may bring flea and tick vec-
tors into contact with veterinary personnel.
Working in outdoor settings may increase
the risk of exposure to arthropods.
Fig. 24
39
 3.2.1 Vaccination
Vaccines are an effective method to pro-
tect animals and people against many
infectious diseases. There are more than
100 vaccines for animals diseases that help
protect many animal species.
40
They stimulate an animal’s immune system
against a specific disease, so if the animal
is later exposed to the disease it has al-
ready the defences against it.
Fig. 25 Fig. 26
41
 4. PETS
A pet or companion animal is an animal
kept primarily for a person’s company, pro-
tection or entertainment, instead of as a
working animal (19).
While humans have kept a large variety of
animal species in captivity over the course
of history, only a few have been kept long
enough to be considered domesticated.
Other animals, like monkeys, have never
been domesticated but are still commonly
sold and kept as pets.
A domesticated animal is any animal that
has been tamed and made fit for a human
environment. They have been kept in cap-
(19) Pet (n.d.). In Wikipedia [Retrieved September, 2017]
(20) “A Guide to Worldwide Pet Ownership”. Liz Walden. Petsecure [Retrieved September, 2017].
42
tivity long enough that they exhibit marked
differences in behaviour and appearance
from their wild relatives.
Wild animals are often kept as pets. This
means any species of animal which has
not undergone a fundamental change
in behaviour to facilitate a close co-exist-
ence with humans.
As human populations have grown, so too
have pet populations. The demographic
spread of pets change drastically depend-
ing on each country and culture but it’s
no surprise that dogs are the most loved
household pet, followed closely by cats (20).
 4.1 World’s Largest Populations of Pet 4.2 Dog distribution in Europe

.Italy: According to a survey promoted by

Italian family associations in 2009, it is esti-
mated that there are approximately 45 mil-
lion pets in Italy. This includes 7 million dogs,
7.5 million cats, 16 million fish, 12 million
birds, 10 million snakes plus 3,000 wild ani-
mals held as “pets”, mainly lions, panthers
and cheetahs.

.UK: A 2007 survey by the University of Bris-

tol found that 26% of UK households owned
cats and 31% owned dogs, estimating to-
tal domestic populations of approximate-
ly 10.3 million cats and 10.5 million dogs in
2006. The survey also found that 47.2% of
households with a cat had at least one
person educated to degree level, com-
pared with 38.4% of homes with dogs.
Fig. 29

4.3 Pet Ownership Statistics in US

Fig. 28
Fig. 30

44 45
 4.4 Most Popular Dog Breeds in US 4.5 Height

Fig. 31
Fig. 32

46 47
 4.6 Weight
4.6.1 Pet Transportation

Commonly cages come in three sizes: Most airlines allow pets on board that
Small, Medium and Large. For cats one size weight less than 8 kgs and have a maxi-
fits all, Small. mum hight of 20 cms to be carried in cag-
es smaller than 46 (length) x 28 (width) x 24
Cages in the market can vary depending (height) cm. Bigger animals up to 75 kgs
on the brand, but they usually follow this should be checked with baggage.
measurements:
Snub-nosed animals such as pugs, boxers,
Small 45 x 35 x 35 cm bulldogs and Persian cats can have trou-
Medium 60 x 45 x 45 cm ble breathing during the flight. To ensure
Large 110 x 65 x 65 cm their well-being, most snub-nosed animals
may therefore only be transported in the
cabin or as cargo.

1.4 Kg 80 Kg Fig. 33

Ideal Weight Ranges of 2009 Top 10 AKC Breeds

Fig. 34
Fig. 35

48 49
 4.7 Temperature 4.7.1 Temperature Control for Stressed Animals

In veterinary hospitals the average tem- After trauma, it’s often the shock that kills. that the rectal temperature can drops crit-
Short list of normal rectal temperature
perature considered for dogs and cats is of The term “shock” is often used incorrectly, ically low (22).
ranges for a few animals commonly treat-
38.5 C. Though as animals are in a stressful it is actually a medical term for a loss of
ed by veterinarians (21):
situation their temperatures can rise, so a circulation. This means that the animal’s Conserving the body heat it’s crucial for
Chicken 40.6–43.0 C
Rabbit 38.6–40.1 C temperature of 39 C is also considered nor- blood pressure becomes critically low and the survival of the animal. Heating pads
Sheep 38.3–39.9 C mal. the brain and other vital organs aren’t get- and refractory blankets are often used for
Pig 38.7–39.8 C ting enough blood. It manifest in different this.
Goat 38.5–39.7 C
Dog Animals in high stress situations might have manners, but one of the most evident on is
37.9–39.9 C
Dairy Cow 38.0–39.3 C a rise in their temperature, for those cases
Cat 38.1–39.2 C is recommended cooling pads.
Beef Cow 36.7–39.1 C
Horse 37.3–38.2 C

On the other hand stress and agitation will
often increase an animal’s body temper-
ature, as those situation increase the pet’s
levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, thy-
roxine and muscle activity, all of which in-
crease heat production.
Fig. 36
Fig. 37
Animals in high stress situations might have
a rise in their temperature, for those cases
is recommended cooling pads as the one
depicted above (23).

(22) “Psychogenic fever: how psychological stress affects body temperature in the clinical population”
(21) “Temperature Regulation and Thermal Environment“ Dukes’ Physiology of Domestic Animals, Takakazu Oka [2015].
Adapted from Robertshaw. D. Reece W.O. Cornell University [2004]. (23) “Stress and Animal Welfare” By D.M. Broom, K.G. Johnson. Kluwer Academic Publishing [1993].

50 51
 5. ICU & OXYGEN THERAPY CAGES

ICU stands for intensive care unit, it is also
known as an intensive therapy unit or inten-
sive treatment unit. It’s a special depart-
ment of a hospital or health facility that
provides intensive treatment medicine (24).
Intensive care units serve patients with
severe and life-threatening illnesses or in-
juries, which require constant monitoring
and support from medical equipment and
medications.
Oxygen therapy refers to supplemental
oxygen given to patients who, largely due
to breathing disorders, aren’t able to get
enough naturally. It is used for low blood
oxygen, carbon monoxide toxicity, cluster
headaches, and to maintain enough oxy-
gen while inhaled anaesthetics are given.
Oxygen can be given in a number of ways
including nasal cannula, face mask, and
inside a hyperbaric chamber (25).

(24) Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Miller-Keane Encyclopedia and Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, and Allied
Health, Seventh Edition [2003].
(25) Oxygen Therapy. Heaven Stubblefield and Ana Gotter, Medically Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Weatherspoon
[2016].

52 53
 5.1 Prevailing Treatments in ICU

.Oxygen therapy .Chest tube placement.

.Nebulization therapy .Intravenous nutrition (IV fluids).

.Blood gas values .24 hour medical and nursing care.

.Pulse oximetry .Pain management

.Blood and plasma transfusions. .Cardiovascular monitoring

.Feeding tube placement and nutritional

support.

Fig. 40

5.2 How Oxygen Therapy Works for Animals

Oxygen therapy works on the principle ing, controls infections more effective-
that high oxygen concentration raises plas- ly, and reduces the pressure caused by in-
ma-oxygen concentration, allowing oxy- juries to the head or spinal cord. Oxygen
gen to diffuse into tissues at distances three therapy for pets is most often used for issues
to four times further than usual to promote such us :
healing. Oxygen therapy provides oxy-
gen for diseased, oedematous and poorly
.Swelling—post-operative, crush injuries,
vascularized areas. Many scientific publi-
snake bite, burns
cations report on the beneficial effects of
.Trauma—internal, head, spinal cord
oxygen therapy for both for humans and
.Non-healing wounds
animals (26).
.Post surgery recovery
.Smoke inhalation
Breathing highly oxygenated air re-
.Carbon monoxide toxicity
duces swelling, speeds wound heal-
Fig. 39
.Pancreatitis

(26) “Healing with Oxygen” Susan Tasaki. The Bark [Retrived October 2017].

54 55
 5.3 Existing Oxygen Therapy for Animals
5.3.1 In hospital treatment

Fig. 41 Fig. 42 Fig. 43

Oxygen therapy is indicated for any pa- the duration supplementation is needed,
tient who presents respiratory distress. Even and the available equipment (27).
patients with mild-to-moderate respiratory
distress should receive supplemental oxy- In most cases, the oxygen will first pass

gen. through a pressure regulator, used to con-

trol the high pressure of oxygen delivered.
Various manners can be used to adminis-
trate oxygen to animals depending on: The Patients may only need a small rise in oxy-

severity of respiratory distress, the need to gen levels, rather than pure oxygen.

handle the patient while providing oxygen,

Fig. 47

Fig. 44 Fig. 45 Fig. 46

It can be administered through nasal can- tion and through containment cages.
nula, oxygen masks, hoods, flow-by induc-

(27) “Oxygen Therapy” Lori S. Waddell, DVM, DACVECC. University of Pennsylvania [2016].

56 57
 5.3.2 On the field treatment 5.3.3 Improvised treatment

Fig. 53 Fig. 54 Fig. 55 Fig. 56

Fig. 48 Fig. 49 Fig. 50

The oxygen administration devices used for

When there is a lack of access
field treatment are reduced as the condi-
to the previews examples, im-
tions are not always optimal and time is of
provised elements help to fill
the essence.
the vacancy. This can be often
seen in developing countries
Invisible Fence estimates that between
as the reach for more special-
40,000 to 150,000 pets die each year in fires,
ized product is many times not
most succumbing to smoke inhalation.
possible.
Fig. 51
Fig. 57 Fig. 58
Emergency responders in some states of US
are equipped with oxygen masks specifi-
cally designed for animals. However, this is
not a common practise in most countries
(28) .

Oxygen tents are seldom used on the field,

as they are more laborious to assemble.

Fig. 52 Fig. 59 Fig. 60 Fig. 61 Fig. 62

(28) Project Breathe™ Program: Pet Oxygen Mask. Invisible Fence Brand [Retrieved September 2017].

58 59
 5.4 Oxygen Cages for Animals 5.4.1 Applications 5.4.2 Properties of Cages on the Market

.Administer Oxygen Safely. .Oxygen Sensor.

They are sealed kennels that allow for a low
stress, non invasive introduction of oxygen
or aerosol medications. They are among
the easiest methods of oxygen adminis-
tration; however, they isolate the patient,
which sometimes can makes it difficult to
examine and treat the individual.
They can accommodates one or more
animals that may require extraordinary life
support for clinical assistance. For some
patients. For example stressed cats, isola-
tion from a strange environment and hu-
mans may be beneficial.
The patient compartment is oxygen en-
riched and humidity in the air can be in-
creased according to the needs. Initial cri-
sis management of animals in respiratory
distress may require high oxygen concen-
trations (up to 90%) until the patient has
been stabilized (29).
If the oxygen is being provided for more
than a few hours, it should be humidified
to prevent the desiccation of the airways.
Humidification can be accomplished by
bubbling the oxygen through a chamber
of distilled water.
This are not to be confused with hyerbar-
ic chambers which maintains an oxygen
pressure higher than the sea level atmos-
pheric pressure.
.Nebulize and/or Medicate.
.Administer Antibiotics via a Nebulized aer-
osol mist of 1-3 micron size particles.
.Anaesthetize without trauma.
.Control Humidity.
.Temperature adjustment.
.Pain management or complex fluid or
drug therapy.
.Transport and/or Isolate.
.Incubate eggs (a secondary use).
.Relative Humidity Display, Monitoring.
.Audible and Visual Alarm.
.Temperature Display, Monitoring, Control.
Audible and Visual Alarm.
.Cooling System.
.Oxygen Induction System.
.CO2 Scrubbing.
.Easy lift removable door.
.Auxiliary Access Ports.
.IV Tube Access with Integrated Adjusta-
ble Bag Holder.
.Nebulizer System.

.Removable Floor.

Fig. 63

(29) “Oxygen Therapy” Lori S. Waddell, DVM, DACVECC. University of Pennsylvania [2016].

60 61
 6. OXYGEN SYSTEMS
Mass casualty events and disasters, both
natural and human-made can cause nu-
merous victims in need of medical assis-
tance. Of the available medical supplies,
oxygen is still a critical limited resource in
disaster management.
Strategic management of oxygen supplies
during disasters remains a priority. Hospitals
have large supplies of liquid oxygen and a
supply of compressed gas oxygen cylinders
that allow several days of reserve, but a
(30) “Oxygen Supplies in Disaster Management” Thomas C Blakeman & Richard D Branson. Respiratory Care
[2013].
62
large flow of patients caused by a disaster
can exhort these resources.
Suppliers can deliver oxygen to alternative
care facilities in disaster areas, in the form
of concentrators, compressed gas cylin-
ders, and liquid oxygen.
“Planning for oxygen needs following a dis-
aster still presents a substantial challenge”
(30) , but provisional care facilities are valu-
able in alleviating the mass flux of patients.
63
 6.1 Oxygen Tanks and Lines
Oxygen tanks are a type of storage sys-
tem that holds oxygen or liquid oxygen in a
pressurized container. There are two types:
.Compressed Oxygen: Is essentially an alu-
minium cylinder that contains oxygen in its
gaseous form.
.Liquid Oxygen: When oxygen is in a cold
state, it turns to liquid. This liquid allows for a
(31) Oxygen Delivery System (n.d) For Miller-Keane Encyclopedia and Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, and
Allied Health, Seventh Edition [2003] [Retrieved October 2017]
64
Fig. 66 Fig. 67
An oxygen humidifier is made to deliver Tubings or lines come in different thickness,
Fig. 65
mist moisture in prescribed medical oxy- though typically their ends have a stand-
greater amount of oxygen to be placed in
gen. This oxygen device is widely used to ard size that fits the nozzles.
a tank and weigh less than a compressed
prevent exsiccation of the airways.
oxygen tank.
Oxygen Compressor or Concentrator is a
device which concentrates the oxygen
from a gas supply, normally air, to supply Venturi oxygen delivery nozzles are the
an oxygen-enriched gas stream. Though feed connectors that allow the entering of
more efficient, it needs a constant power atmospheric air into the oxygen. Each col-
supply (31). our coded nozzle lets a percentage air mix
with the oxygen (32).
Fig. 68
(32) “Oxygen Therapy for Acute Adult Inpatients” Learning Module for Allied Health Staff. Allied Health Services
[2016].
65
 6.2 Nebulizer & Compressor
Nebulizers are used in order to change
the liquid into a fine mist which allows it to
reach deep into the lungs where it can be
most effective. The nebulizer, sometimes
called a medication cup, is the part of the
system that changes the medication into
a fine mist.
The compressor provides a flow of air to the
nebulizer, enabling it to create the mist. A
compressor is electrically powered, if it is a
portable compressor, it may also have a
separate battery or a AC/DC charger.
(33) “Clinical Medical Assisting: A Professional, Field Smart Approach to the Workplace” Michelle Heller [2009].
66
To travel deep into the lungs, the particles
that are breathed in need to be within the
size range of 1 and 5 microns (33).
The nebulizer should be replaced regular-
ly to ensure that a good fast treatment is
achieved. If the nebulizer is not replaced
as required, the nebulizer will stop working
efficiently. This will mean that the medicine
cup may wear and produce larger aerosol Fig. 70 Fig. 71
Compressor Nebulizer Kit
particles that may not reach the lungs.
A connecting t-piece will unite the mist
coming from the nebulizer with the oxy-
gen line. This would be useful as the ICU
won’t need two separate enterings to
host the two therapies.
Fig. 72
Fig. 69
67
 6.3 Products Life Cycle
The constant rotation of patients in the
emergency rooms signifies also a constant
circulation of medical instruments. The
sterilization of the before mentioned com-
prise extra work to be done. For this reason
many of this supplies are disposable or par-
tially disposable.
A report from the Ontario Hospital Associa-
tion estimates hospitals are responsible for
Fig. 73
Completely Disposable Completely Reusable
(34) “Medical waste-management practices vary across Canada” Erin Walkinshaw [2011].
68
at least 1% of non-residential landfill waste.
And of the total amount of waste generat-
ed by health-care activities, about 85% is
general, non-hazardous waste (34).
Health-care waste in some circumstances
is incinerated, and dioxins, furans and oth-
er toxic air pollutants may be produced as
emissions.
Fig. 74
Partly reusable. Partly dis-
posable
6.4 Humidity Control
Wounds may take longer to heal when
unfavourable conditions persist. A suitable
environment must be provided for an effi-
cient wound healing.
Desiccation of the wound surface means
the removal of physiological fluids that sup-
port wound healing. Dry wounds are more
painful, itchy, and produce scab material
Silica Gel it is used to control local humidi-
ty. It is used to dry the air in industrial com-
pressed air systems. Air from the compres-
Fig. 75
sor discharge flows through a bed of silica
gel beads. The silica gel adsorbs moisture
from the air, preventing damage at the
point of use of the compressed air due to
condensation or moisture. Other applica-
tions include inhalation devices, syringes,
(35) “Worldwide Wound Management, Forecast to 2024” MedMarket Diligence report [2015].
in an attempt to reduce fluid loss. Epithe-
lialization, meaning the regrowth of skin
over a wound, is drastically slowed when
there is scab tissue.
Maceration resulting from prolonged expo-
sure to moisture can lead to enlargement
of the wound and infection.
Fig. 76
drug test kits and hospital sanitation kits. Sil-
ica gel is also used as cat litter, by itself or
in combination with more traditional mate-
rials, such as clays including bentonite (35).
Silica gel is non-toxic and stable with ordi-
nary usage. The gel can be reuse by drying
over a stove or microwave.
69
PART 2
70 71
 1. BRIEF
Design an ICU cage with Oxygen Therapy
that will be used by veterinaries, vet techs
and rescuers during the aftermath of a nat-
ural or man-caused disaster.
The product should be a system of objects
that will serve through most of the rescuing
sequence. From the contentment, to the
veterinarians hands, to the healing and fi-
nally to the release.
72
The cage itself will serve as a contention
space that will transform as the state of the
animal becomes clearer and more com-
plex.
Medical instruments will be added as the
needs increase. As an example: heat can
be added if the animal needs it, same with
oxygen or nebulized medication.
73
 1.1 Product Involvement in Rescue 1.2 Product Requirements

1- Adaptable in case of no electricity. Basic functions should work without it.

2- Adapt to different animal sizes.

3- Easy transportation and assembly in location.

4- Temperature control for stressed animals.

5- Dehumidifier.

6- Easy and quick access to the animal.

7- Resistant to rough weather conditions and to mistreatment by the animals.

8- Easy to clean and disinfect.

9- Aids to facilitate use.

Fig. 79

74 75
 1.3 Product Constraints 1.4 Product’s Life Cycle Analysis

1- Aimed at animals of human company.

2- Three cage sizes: Small (45 x 35 x 35 cm), Medium (60 x 45 x 45 cm) and Large
(110 x 65 x 65 cm).

3- Animals no heavier than 100 kg.

4- Used by qualified personal such as rescuers and veterinaries.

5- For use in temperatures within -10 °C and 40 °C.

6- Include a Thermometer & Hygrometer

76 77
 1.5 Concept
The concept of this product relies on the
basic requirements the veterinaries and
rescuers have for the safe handling and
better healing of animals during catastro-
phes.
For this reason the product can be discom-
posed in three items: The base, the rescu-
er’s cage and the healing tent.
The Base serves as the crate for the animal
in both situations, the rescue and the heal-
ing. The other two items are attached to it
as the animal’s condition changes. It can
also be used independently as a bed.
78
The rescuers cage is a strong kennel that
fastens over the base and is used during
the retrieve.
On the other hand, the healing tent serves
a medical function. Once the animal has
been salvaged and it’s state of well-being
is clear he can be transfer into this item.
Here it can have the veterinary care that it
needs with the aid of oxygen, warming or
cooling, intravenous medication, etc.
79
 2. PROJECT
The previous research has established a
path for the project to follow, setting the
requirements and constraints that the sys-
tem will need to serve it’s purpose. The final
product results of a solid compliance with
the brief.
The materials and manufacturing process-
80
es have been chosen to fulfil the objective
of a sturdy product that should withstands
the roughness of weather and animal use,
and to be as economic as possible.
As before mentioned the project is a sys-
tem of products that interact with them-
selves.
81
 Small
Medium
Large

82 83
 3. BASE
The base is the core of the system. It serves own as a bed inside kennels or as a gurney
as the foundation to which the other items to move injured animals.
will attach. And it can also function on it’s

84 85
 3.1 General Dimensions 3.2 Components

S: 50 M: 80 L: 100
S: 350 M: 450 L: 660 Four latches, two at each side help in main- The screws used are M4 x 10 mm with cross
taining the two covers in place. recessed countersunk head.

The rotomolded base has embedded me-

tallic inserts to facilitate the attachment of
S: 450 M: 700 L: 1100 the latches.

86 87
 3.3 Use on its own
This part of the product can stand alone
and serve as a dog bed.
It can be gifted to the owner of the ani-
mal when the rescue teams take down the
refuge. Therefore when the organizations
88
3.4 Aids to facilitate use
remove themselves from the catastrophe
areas they can leave some items behind,
without the need to carry them back. It
may also be helpful to the people that
have lost their properties during the disas-
ter.
The surface of the bed is flat and non po- The cushion have a nylon textile cover to
rous to make the cleaning more efficient allow the user to wash them or replace
and rapid. them if required.
89
 3.5 Production Process
The technology chosen for producing the
base is Rotational Moulding. This process
consists in introducing a polymer into a
closed mold, that would then be heated
to melt the material and rotated. Once the
mold is cooled down the hollow piece can
be extracted.
The draft angles recommended for roto-
molding vary depending on the thermo-
plastic, but as a standard they oscillate be-
The base arrives to location stalked and can be kept just as it is till they are needed. tween 1° to 3° (36).
(36) “The Introductory Guide to Designing Rotationally Molded Plastic Parts” Association of Rotational Molders
International [1982, 2010] Glen Ellyn, Illinois U.S.A.
90
The tooling costs of this method is lower
than injection molding and it requires a
lower batch size to be competitive.
It also allows the production of very large
parts and the application of inserts in the
molds.
The piece has been designed bearing this
in mind and can be observed through a
draft angle analysis done in PTC Creo.
91
 3.6 Material Selection
The material has been determined for this
product through an analysis of constraints
and objectives in the CES 2017 software.
Function of the Base: Self carrying, self sup-
porting foundation that will hold the ele-
ments attached to it as well as the weight
of an animal.
Constraints:
-Rotational molded.
-Thermoplastic material.
-Stiff enough → to support itself.
92
-Resist fresh and salty water. The final result indicates that a good ma- It’s typical uses of this material include
-Resist organic solvents terial choice would be a Polypropylene, medical components, containers, bottle
homopolymer, with 40% of added talc as crates, toys, between others.
Objectives: it has a lower price per density and a high
-Tough enough (high K1c) → To resist man- Young’s Modulus.
handling.
-Stiff enough (high young modulus) → To
resist the pressure produced by the weight
of an animal. 1- Durable
-Lower price.
2- Excellent resistance to solvents, acids and alkalis that can be found in cleaning and
Free Variable: disinfecting products.
Recyclable
3- Excellent resistance to fresh and salty water.
4- Recyclable.
5- High resistance to deformation.
6- High resistance to breaking.
7- Excellent resistance to environmental stress cracking
8- Non toxic.
9- Low cost alternative to engineering plastics such as ABS, PA and POM.
93
 4. RESCUE CAGE

The rescue cage is easily mounted on top retrieving campaigns and afterwards to
of the base when it’s needed. It works as a hold animals while in the refuge.
potable kennel for rescuers to utilize during

94
 4.1 General Dimensions 4.2 Components

Net Fabric
Handle for Assembly
Fabric Reinforcements
Push-Pins
S: 350 M: 450 L: 660

Door with Zipper

S: 350 M: 500 L: 710

Handle
Tag Holder

Latches

S: 450 M: 700 L: 1100 Buckles

Straps

96 97
 4.3 Cage in Use

98 99
 4.4 Aids that facilitate use

The smallest size comes with top handles to It has been excluded from sizes Medium
facilitate the transportation. and Large due to the size of the item and
the weight of the animal carried inside.

100 101

Triage is the process of determining the
priority of patients’ treatments based on
the severity of their condition (37)
mines the order and priority of emergency
treatment. In larger scale emergencies this
procedure is done by tagging the patients
(37) Triage (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved October 30, 2017.
102
The frontal door to the cage allows for a closure that facilitates the opening.
fast access to the animal. It has a zipper
with colours and a brief description of their
condition. The Cage includes a tag hold-
. It deter- er where the assistants can add the colour
code, the name of the animal and where
he was found.
103
 The cover has two straps and buckles to
keep the cage secure.
The fabric cover is riveted to the rotomold-
104
ed parts with push pins. This plastic riv-
ets can be removed if the fabric rips and
needs to be replaced, this way extending
the life of the product.
The larger sizes can be carried by two per- As the context of a disaster is hectic and
sons, each at one side and lifting it by the the resources of aid are not always the
handles. Or, as shown in the images above, same, the transportation cage can be car-
it can travel on top of a trolley. ried by any type of trolley and fixed to it if
necessary with the straps at the bottom.
105
 Two latches at each side of the cage allow The reinforcement fabric is places where
a secure and quick fix of the cage and the the product is most likely to rub against oth-
base. er object. This protects the lower layer of
fabric to rip and brake.

The textile cover is open on the top, in such bly handle that locks the hinge so that it
a way that the user can access the assem- doesn’t collapse back to close position.

106 107
 4.5 Production Process
All structural parts of the cage are produce
in rotational molding as the base. The top
handle to lock the mechanism and the tag
holders on the other hand are produced
with injection molding.
108
Following are each of this plastic pieces
with a draft analysis that verifies the feasi-
bility of production (3° for rotomolding - 1°
for injection molding).
4.6 Material Selection
4.6.1 Plastic Parts
For the rotomolded parts the material se-
lected is the same as the base: Polypro-
pylene, homopolymer, with 40% of added
talc.
The selection for the injection molded parts
is better detailed later during the material
selection of the ICU cage. The chosen ma-
terial is Polypropylene (PP) Homopolymer,
20% talc.
109
 4.6.2 Textiles
The body of the cage is fashioned with
Cordura Ballistics fabric, made out of Nylon
6.6 threads. A textile that it’s used for foot-
wear, scuba gear, military equipment, and
even for product in contact with animals.
A net fabric allows for the very needed
ventilation. The textile is a 100% nylon knit
mesh with resin finish fabric. This fabric is
employed for tents and outdoor wear, car-
go bags, between others.
110
The union between the fabrics it’s done by The thread used is a 100% nylon thread for
a double reinforced seam to avoid stitch- a more durable bond.
ing.
It is waterproof, and abrasion, tear and
puncture resistance.
It has a bound seam at each cut to give
it strength, avoid unravelling of the fabric
and to give it a more pleasant aesthetics.
A rat tail trim coil has been used to strength- The interior edge also has a bound seam
en the edges that are more likely to rub finish to give it a neater termination.
and rip.
The end finishes of the fabric have a bound
seam like the Cordura Ballistics to avoid un-
ravel and to facilitate the sewing with oth-
er fabrics.
111
 3.7 Production Assembly

The fabric cover is attached to the main ment. The fabric is already riveted with
frame by plastic rivet push pin retainers, rings to expedite the assembly.
with a screw head for an easier detach-

The latches are attached to the rotomold- with the metallic pressfit inserts embedded
ed part by M4 x 10 mm screws with cross in the part.
recessed countersunk head. They twine

112 113
 5. INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

The ICU cage is a medical airtight enclo- Aids to facilitate the use can be added
sure for animals. Injured pets can rest inside as the condition of the animal becomes
while they are under observation by the clearer and when the vet assign it.
veterinary specialists.

114
 5.1 General Dimensions 5.2 Components

Handle

Clear Plastic Fabric

Fabric Reinforcements

IV Holder
S: 350 M: 450 L: 660

Stopper
S: 350 M: 500 L: 710

Oxygen Nozzle
Venturi Nozzle Pocket

Thermometer
S: 450 M: 700 L: 1100
Side Door

Reinforced Base

116 117
 5.3 Use

118 119
 5.4 Aids that facilitate use

The cover is airtight, which allows the veter- The transparent material is crucial for the
inarian to induce oxygen to the animal in a constant monitoring of the pet.
non invasive manner.

120 121
 It has an inlet where a line can be secured
to provide oxygen to the interior of the tent.
The size of the hose is standard and permits
the use of venturi nozzles to provide differ-
ent percentages of oxygen in air.
It also has a elastic pocket to safe keep the
venturi nozzles and have them at a quick
and easy access.

As depicted in the research the tempera- The thermometer’s temperature measure-

ture and humidity control are vital in ICU
care. For this reason the tent has a stand-
ard digital, battery powered, thermometer
and hygrometer embedded in it.
The hygrometer has a humidity measure-
ment range of 10% to 99%, with an accu-
racy of ± 3%.
ment range is of -50 to 70 degrees Celsius,
with an accuracy of 1 degree.
Silica bags can be introduced to the en-
closure to absorb extra humidity. Silica is
often used for this purpose and is non toxic.

122 123
 To control the temperature the cushion on demand. This pads function with phase
on the base has a pocket where the vet changing materials that heat up or chill
tech can place cooling or warming pads down without the need of electricity.

On the opposing side of the oxygen intake It also features tu rubber stops so that when
Cooling: TheraCool Gel Cell Cooling Pad Heating: Achy Paws™ Bamboo Charcoal,
there is double armed IV holder. not in use they can remain closed and the
with Tricore Charcoal-Infused Memory Self-Warming Pet Mat.
oxygen won’t filter out
Foam.

124 125
 Two top handles, one at each side grants The handle has a grip to protect the hands
the user the possibility of moving the prod- of the user from chafe.
uct freely.

There are two doors at each side with a Two parallel zippers make the opening and
large aperture that expedites the admit- closing of the door fast and simple.
tance of the animal and the free manoeu-
vre of the doctor.

126 127
 5.5 Production Process

The reinforcement fabric is placed where the base the product is more likely to wear.
the product is most likely to rub against oth- This extra layer of textile protects the plastic
er objects. In the angles of the sides or at fabric from puncture or tear.

PTC Creo Parametrics determines that above 1° necessary for the removal from
both parts are designed with draft angles the mold in injection molding.

128 129
 Stage 3: Young's modulus (GPa) vs. Price * Density

5.6 Material Selection

5.6.1 Plastic Selection

Rotomolded parts are the same as the -Thermoplastic material. As seen in the graphic the result of the da- By adding this parameters the result is a lo
cage. -Stiff enough → to support itself. tabase search is broad. For this reason one reduced, with only 8 candidates.
-Resist fresh and salty water. more constraint was added:
The injected parts areStage 3: Young's
produced in modulus
Poly- (GPa) vs.organic
-Resist Price * Density
solvents PP, 20% talc has a hight Young’s moduls in
propylene (PP) Homopolymer, 20% talc. Resistance to fresh and salty water. relation with the price per density.
The selection of this material was done with Objectives: Resistance to Organic Solvents.
CES database by restricting the search with -Tough enough (high K1c) → To resist man-
constraints and objectives. handling.
-Stiff enough (high young modulus) → To PP (homopolymer, 20% talc) PA66 (40-45% mineral filled)

Young's modulus (GPa)

Function of the Parts: Self carrying, self sup- resist the weight of the attached parts. 5

porting holder that will carry the elements -Lower price. PA6 (40% mineral)
attached to it.
2

Constraints: Free Variable:

-Injection molded. Recyclable
1

PP (homopolymer, 20% talc) 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500

PA66 (40-45% mineral filled)
Young's modulus (GPa)

5 PS (high impact) PS (heat resistant) SMMA (clarity, stiffness) Price * Density

ABS (medium-impact, injection molding)

1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500

Price * Density

130 131
 5.6.2 Textiles

The body of the tent is build out of PVC
transparent fabric, 0.3 mm thick. This tex-
tile is widely employed, from the fashion
industry to construction. It is water proof,
completely see through, and considerably
difficult to rip or tear.
The cut is finished off with a bound seam
to make it stronger and easier to stitch to
other fabrics.

To maintain the air tightness and also pro-
tect the areas of the cover that are prone
to tearing two layers of fabrics are used.
The outer layer is Cordura Ballistics to rein-
force, and the inner layer is the PVC fabric.
To reinforce the seams a rat tail trim coil
has been used.
And for a neater finish the interior seam
covered with bound seam.

132 133
 The bound seam used in the PCV fabric PCV fabric and its rubber strip are com-
where the Oxygen and IV holders will be pressed leaving less room for air to filter out.
placed is made out of rubber. When the
holders are screwed to the lateral wall the

The openings of the doors are facilitated zipper, that are usually used for outdoor
by the use of a durable YKK-MZF Injection wear and luggages.

134 135
 6. SEQUENCE OF USE

As mentioned before this products system
has been designed in order to accompany
each step of the rescuing, from the retriev-
al of the animal, to the healing, and finally
to the release.
The various items adapt to the necessities
of the different actors involve. Like wise It
has extra accessories that help overcome
the complications that may arise.

136
 6.2 Use

6.2.1 Product system arrival to location 6.2.3 Rescue

Each item arrives to the disaster zone intensive care unit and the kennel. The cage aids in the retrieval of the The larger sizes can be carried by two
separately, either stacked as in the They are light weight and can be animals left behind during and after people.
case of the base, or folded as the transported on pallets. the disaster has stricken.

6.2.2 Set up of cages

Once the situation on the catastro-
phe area is assessed and the quantity
of cages required is approximated,
the rescue crew can put them to-
gether by unfolding and latching the
top part to the base.

138 139
 6.2.5 Veterinary care

The animals reclaimed can wait in- animals this can serve as a safe ref- Veterinaries can examine the urgent inside the ICU. Heat or cold can be
side the kennels till a veterinarian uge to lower their stress and it’s con- cases and give medical care to them applied according to the need.
technician can examine it. For scared sequences.

6.2.4 Set up of medical tents

Once the animal’s well-being has
been appraised and the number of
animals in need of urgent care is es-
timated, volunteers can mount the
intensive care units by unfolding the
tents and latching them to the base,
just like the kennels.
If the veterinary indicates it, an oxy- Two IVs can be hanged and allowed
gen line can be attached. Medicine inside the tent. While not in use the
and anaesthetics can be introduced rubber stops block the exit of oxygen.
as well through this line.

140 141
 6.2.6 Demobilization 6.2.7 Repair
The product system has been de-
signed so that every part can be re-
placed in case of rupture.

In this way the life cycle of the prod-

ucts are prolonged and can be re-
used in other emergency situations.

Replacement of this parts can be

done with simple daily used tools.

Once the situation returns to normal, of temporary shelters. The tents and
owners are reunited with their pets, cages can be folded back again to
stray animals are given away, demo- be transported back to the point of
bilization starts. This means the closing origin.

Bases that can act as dog or cat and save costs in demobilization.
beds can be gifted to the affected

142 143
 6.2 Assembly

144 145
146 147
 7. SYSTEM EXPANSION

This system grants the possibility of expan- During the healing and during the waiting
sion. Other helpful items could be added in the kennels a opaque layer of fabric
to it to simplify the tasks of the rescuers and could serve as a hideout for scared cats.
veterinaries.

A foldable trolley that fits the pattern on

the bottom of the base permits an swifter
move of the bigger cage sizes.

148 149
150 151
 8. LIST OF FIGURES
Fig. 1: http://www.emergenciaonline.com/site/artigos/22239-como-salvan-vidas-los-per-
ros-en-los-terremotos-jugando
Fig. 2: http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/science/2016/10/blaming_natural_dis-
asters_on_climate_change_will_backfire.html
Fig. 3: http://archive.jsonline.com/multimedia/photos/photos-around-the-globe-sept-7-
b99346596z1-274295271.html
Fig. 4: http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/operations-abroad-recurring/dart.page
Fig. 5: http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2015/02/anti-vaccine-movement-spreading-to-pet-
owners.html
Fig. 6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVIzwesP2uI
Fig. 7: http://actionunlimited.com/like-animals-volunteer-for-stows-disaster-animal-re-
sponse-team-dart/
Fig. 8: http://www.nashvillepaw.com/latest_topics/2016/01/15/8-tips-for-preparing-for-emergen-
cy.1834319
Fig. 9: http://www.akc.org/content/news/articles/central-ohio-kennel-club-donates-akc-pet-dis-
aster-relief-trailer/
Fig. 10: http://worldvets.org/campaigns/disaster-response/
Fig. 11: http://www.news1130.com/2015/08/19/since-katrina-10-years-ago-responders-and-agen-
cies-better-prepared-to-reconnect-people-pets/
Fig. 12: http://baddogneedsrottenhome.com/page.html?image=1200
Fig. 13: https://actualidad.rt.com/sociedad/view/95158-animales-rescatados-tornado-oklahoma
Fig. 14: http://www.ifaw.org/united-states/news/watch-tornado-survivors-tupelo-lee-humane-shel-
ter-mississippi
152
Fig. 15: http://worldvets.org/2013/11/world-vets-responds-to-philippines-typhoon/
Fig. 16: http://thegaap.org/todos-santos-guatemala/
Fig. 17: https://www.worldanimalprotection.us.org/news/our-disaster-response-teams-are-protect-
ing-animals-philippines-and-cabo-verde
Fig. 18: https://www.rosseducation.edu/programs/
Fig. 19: http://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/animal-health-resources/zoono-
sis-around-the-world-2/
Fig. 20: http://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/animal-health-resources/zoono-
sis-around-the-world-2/
Fig. 21: http://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/animal-health-resources/zoono-
sis-around-the-world-2/
Fig. 22: http://thefurshire.com/signs-your-pet-may-be-sick/
Fig. 23: http://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/animal-health-resources/zoono-
sis-around-the-world-2/
Fig. 24: http://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/animal-health-resources/zoono-
sis-around-the-world-2/
Fig. 25: http://familylawyermagazine.com/articles/pets-are-more-than-property-how-feathers-
and-fur-can-grow-your-practice/
Fig. 26: https://www.petsecure.com.au/pet-care/a-guide-to-worldwide-pet-ownership/
Fig. 27: https://www.statista.com/statistics/414956/dog-population-european-union-eu-by-coun-
try/
Fig. 28: https://www.statista.com/statistics/198086/us-household-penetration-rates-for-pet-owning-
since-2007/
153
 Fig. 29: https://www.statista.com/chart/1173/most-popular-dog-breeds/
Fig. 30: http://www.thepaw-risianbistro.com/bellomania-breed-size-chart
Fig. 31: https://www.mundoperros.es/perros-pequenos/
Fig. 32: https://www.drivethenation.com/pet-luggage-options/
Fig. 33: http://www.tarracofelina.org/panleucopenia-felina/
Fig. 34: https://www.petco.com/shop/ProductDisplay?urlRequestType=Base&cata-
logId=10001&categoryId=&productId=608034&errorViewName=ProductDisplayErrorView&url-
LangId=-1&langId=-1&top_category=&parent_category_rn=&storeId=10151
Fig. 35: http://www.yuckos.com/pet_oxygen_masks.htm
Fig. 36: http://www.countrysidevetservices.com/about/
Fig. 37: http://jacksonville.com/news/health-and-fitness/2013-11-20/story/hyperbaric-oxygen-ther-
apy-chamber-helps-heal-animals
Fig. 38: https://www.encinavet.com/peanut-the-miracle-cat/
Fig. 39: https://imvets.com/what-is-hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy/
Fig. 40: http://atthevets.co.nz/services/surgery/
Fig. 41: https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/oxygen-therapy
Fig. 42: https://ausemergencyvet.wordpress.com/2012/10/03/surviving-tick-paralysis/
Fig. 43: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuuxm6x6wPs
Fig. 44: “Oxygen Therapy” Lori S. Waddell, DVM, DACVECC. University of Pennsylvania [2016].
Fig. 45: https://dogsmonthly.co.uk/2017/07/14/smokey-paws-are-saving-animals-lives/
Fig. 46: http://www.catranchrescue.org/disaster-response.html
Fig. 47: http://www.lifewithcats.tv/2015/07/17/nola-firefighters-revive-lifeless-cat-with-pet-oxygen-
mask/
Fig. 48: http://www.mehotcenters.com/overview/simple-concept/
Fig. 49: http://www.jorvet.com/product/buster-icu-cage-medium/
Fig. 50: https://bluepearlvet.com/newsletter/tennessee-2017-winter-newsletter/
Fig. 51: https://petfriendsmagazine.wordpress.com/2015/01/
Fig. 52: https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/oxygen-therapyFig.
53: https://petfriendsmagazine.wordpress.com/2015/01/30/local-story-on-dogs-oxygen-crate-
makes-global-impact/
154
Fig. 54: http://www.veterinary.ie/go/services/surgery
Fig. 55: http://www.city-data.com/forum/pets/2275077-how-build-oxygen-tank-your-pet.html
Fig. 56: http://www.city-data.com/forum/pets/2275077-how-build-oxygen-tank-your-pet.html
Fig. 57: http://www.city-data.com/forum/pets/2275077-how-build-oxygen-tank-your-pet.html
Fig. 58: http://www.city-data.com/forum/pets/2275077-how-build-oxygen-tank-your-pet.html
Fig. 59: http://www.city-data.com/forum/pets/2275077-how-build-oxygen-tank-your-pet.html
Fig. 60: http://atthevets.co.nz/services/surgery/
Fig. 61: http://www.airpro.ie/applications/oxygen-applications/
Fig. 62: https://clinicalgate.com/oxygen-and-medical-gas-therapy-2/
Fig. 63: http://www.directhomemedical.com/002006-airlife-bubble-humidifier-oxygen.html
Fig. 64: http://www.suprahealthcare.co.za/catalog/oxygen-mask/
Fig. 65: http://www.flexicare.com/products/oxygen-aerosol-therapy/fixed-concentration/aero-
sol-masks
Fig. 66: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldkQP2AiBOc
Fig. 67: http://www.ambercity.com/compmist-compressor-nebulizer-kit-40-105-000.html
Fig. 68: https://www.amdnext.com/micro-mist-nebulizer-tee-7-ft-tubing-reservoir-tube-mouth-
piece-standard-connector-50-cs-115459.html
Fig. 69: http://www.cram.com/flashcards/chapter-30-respiration-2397545
Fig. 70: https://www.idafoundation.org/medical-supplies/
Fig. 71: http://www.maqsurgical.com/
Fig. 72: https://justnebulizers.com/parts-for-innospire-essence-and-elegance-nebulizer-compres-
sors.html
Fig. 73: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Silica_gel_pb092529.jpg
Fig. 74: http://www.gettyimages.it/2016/stories/louisiana-flooding/
Fig. 75: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/546483736007761139/
Fig. 76: http://worldvets.org/campaigns/disaster-response/
Fig. 78: http://blogs.mercurynews.com/pets/2015/04/20/getting-pet-ready-big-one/
Fig 79: https://www.infobae.com/america/fotos/2017/09/20/las-mejores-fotos-de-las-tareas-de-
rescate-tras-el-terremoto-en-mexico/
155
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