HARTPURY_POSTGRADUATE_PROSPECTUS_2024

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SHAPING

THE FUTURE At Hartpury, we focus on how we can use our skills today to shape the future positively,

Exploring injury and canine biomechanics To understand current rates of injury within the sport, BFA members were surveyed resulting in the collection of performance and injury data from over 500 dogs. The project also undertook biomechanical analysis of competitors during the box-turn (where dogs turn on an angled surface while catching a ball), using state of the art 3D motion capture technology to provide data on canine movement in addition to data on the forces the limbs experience. This data provides a unique insight in the potential for injury within the sport, which will enable governing bodies to generate recommendations for competitor safety in the future.

particularly in improving the safety and wellbeing of animals. For example, we’re currently collaborating with the British Flyball Association (BFA) to investigate both the occurrence and origins of injuries within the sport. Canine flyball is a fantastic sport for both spectators and competitors. It is fast, frenetic, and hugely entertaining and as such it continues to grow in popularity across the world. Hartpury are leading the way as to date, limited research has been conducted on flyball dogs to understand the injury risks for participants and to assess the overall safety of

the sport for canine competitors. Enhancing safety and welfare

Our research partner

This project aims to make a real difference in enhancing safety and welfare for flyball dogs, whilst still maintaining the fundamental appeal of the sport.

There are many opportunities for students to get involved with research projects inside and outside their studies through dissertations, module briefs and voluntary roles .