Neighbourhood Rescuer
Project type /
Product Design
Date /
August' 2022
Client /
Simon Fraser University
Team /
Anna Chi,
Gracie Gu,
Julia Nguyen &
Sarah Daniels
A comprehensive platform that enables individuals to swiftly and effectively respond to stray animal encounters.
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Stray : A domestic* animal that is wandering at large or lost
Initial Research
Primary Method
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Conducted extensive primary research by engaging in empathetic conversations with individuals who have personally encountered stray animals, delving into their unique experiences to gain valuable insights. Additionally, proactively reached out to reputable animal rescues and shelters, conducting concise yet informative phone interviews to gather comprehensive data on the challenges and opportunities within the realm of stray animal welfare
Demographics
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Those who encounter a lost or injured stray in need of help with no experience in animal rescuing. Through research on public forums, the team concluded that the age group of Gen Z to Millennials (i.e., 18 to 29 year olds) will be the most suitable age demographic to design for as they are more prone to find help through digital resources.
Common Task
Whenever they ( Demographic ) come across stray animals, they tend to look for online advice from Google and forums. As a result of this insight, the team came up with the idea of providing assistance to these individuals via a digital intervention that facilitates a more efficient, direct interaction.
Opportunities &
Area of Intervention
Professional assistance is not always available.
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Clinics often close early and are not accessible 24hr a day. The BC SPCA expects you to handle the situation as much as possible before intervention.
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How can we provide emergency help to those pets during after open hours?
Online search results aren’t helpful for time and location-sensitive situations.
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Search engine results are long, varied, and often do not address urgency of situation. Internet is filled with online communities & forums. Honing down on useful resource is difficult, and often help is not immediate.
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How can we help surface pertinent information in a timely manner?
Housing is the ultimate goal, but not everyone has the resources to house a stray.
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There is a lack of housing available for strays — shelters are often booked up. Important to consider all stages of a rescue: Encounter, Rescue, Home
Can we incorporate all aspects of the journey in ensuring that the safety needs of strays are ultimately met?
Problem Statement
How might we empower individuals who encounter strays to better respond to them in time of urgent need?