TED Talks Daily What happens when your dog uses the internet | Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas
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Jul 3, 2025 
Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas, a computer scientist, discusses the groundbreaking concept of a social internet for animals. Imagine your dog video calling their pals! She dives into how technology can empower pets to make choices, enhancing their connections with both their owners and other animals. Hirskyj-Douglas highlights fascinating examples, like parrots forming friendships online and dogs interacting with tailored digital devices. This innovative approach promises to radically transform our understanding of animal consciousness and welfare.
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Dogs Using Tech Untrained
- Ilyena built devices that let dogs control video playback by proximity and interaction.
- Dogs used these devices without training, showing interest and possible understanding.
Monkeys Enjoy Tech and Relax
- White-faced saki monkeys enjoyed specific videos and sounds through devices Ilyena developed.
- Their stress behavior decreased, showing wellbeing improvements from technology use.
Animals Seek Control Through Tech
- Animals may use technology to gain control and predictability rather than for specific functions.
- This challenges assumptions about why animals interact with tech and calls for deeper study.