3 Ways 3D Printing Helped Animals

Posted by dinsmoreinc on March 20th, 2020

With the advancements in additive manufacturing techniques, 3D printing is often incorporated in many industries, such as veterinary medicine. This innovation has helped animals in various ways. Here are 3 examples.

Call for a Shell-ebration

When a bush fire broke out in the Amazon, Freddy the tortoise became an unfortunate victim. They suffered from horrific injuries, leaving them badly burned and having their shell destroyed. Luckily, a group of veterinarians, a dental surgeon, and a designer recognized that the reptile needed immediate medical attention and vowed to remake their protective covering.

The dedicated group started by taking around 40 pictures of Freddy at different angles and comparing the images to photos of healthy tortoises. They designed a model that mimicked a shell and created a tangible version using a desktop 3D printer and ink from corn-based plastic. With a brand new exterior attached to them, the animal was observed walking with ease and with a happy look on their face.

Beak-oming Well Again

Grecia the toucan lost almost half their beak when a group of teenage boys attacked them with sticks. Because of their injury, the yellow-throated bird couldn't search for food or defend themselves from predators. Members of a wildlife center rescued the poor creature and posted their photos on social media. Soon enough, many compassionate people gave donations to help them.

The members decided to use the money in making a 3D printed beak for the bird. They contacted technicians and designers to create the prosthetics. With the team's efforts, a working model was materialized. The finished product served several functions, such as feeding, vocalization, and temperature regulation. Ever since Grecia could do all these again, they've also been singing merrily.

Everything's Paw-ssible

Derby, the dog couldn't walk around freely since they were born with front legs that were deformed and had no paws. Luckily for the husky, their owner worked for a 3D printing company, so she used her knowledge to make prosthetics for her beloved pet.

Derby's owner created a total of 2 designs, with the second one accommodating the canine's needs best. The successful model has a figure-8 pattern with a central junction, so the husky could flex it like a real knee. Once the printed legs were attached to them, the dog started practicing their walk. Later on, even running for miles became easy for the lively animal.

3D printing is continuously revolutionizing the veterinary industry. Clinics and rescue centers who want to incorporate this in their procedures can look for a company that offers an additive manufacturing service in California. With the possibilities that this technology provides, treating animals will be more efficient.