Helping your pet out on them RUFF days..
Spotify has introduced personalised pet playlists designed to match the mood and characteristics described by owners. Users can generate a playlist for a dog, cat, iguana, hamster or bird, and filter how energetic, friendly and curious they are, CNN reports.
An algorithm will then select a playlist that the owner likes which aligns closely with their pet’s traits, so the music can be enjoyed together.
Neil Evans, professor at the University of Glasgow, said:
“While there is a lot of scientific research that has shown that short periods of music can make dogs more relaxed, we have shown that providing dogs with varied auditory enrichment can be used to reduce stress and anxiety over longer periods of time.
“When dogs have appropriate auditory enrichment they may bark less, lie down and sleep more, and their body’s are in a more relaxed physiological state.”
According to a survey of 3,000 pet owners, three-quarters of them say they already play songs to their animals regularly. The streaming service has also created a new podcast for lonely dogs designed to keep them calm when they're home alone, called My Dog’s Favourite Podcast.
Dr Samantha Gaines, RSPCA dog welfare expert, said:
“While nothing can ever replace the company and presence of a dog’s two-legged friend, research is increasingly showing the effect of music on dog behaviour.
“The type of music a dog listens to is important and research has shown that some music can help dogs relax while other types may have a less beneficial effect so it’s really great Spotify have curated and produced music with dogs in mind.”
