Our Projects
Follow the journey of dogs receiving our custom 3D printed prosthetics
We're Seeking New Projects
Komis is currently our only project, but we're actively looking for more dogs that could benefit from our free prosthetic services. If you know of a dog in need of a prosthetic limb, please contact us.
Our team is ready to assess new cases and provide custom-designed prosthetics at no cost to the owners.
Eligibility Criteria
- Dogs with limb loss or mobility challenges
- Stable health condition
- Owner commitment to follow-up care
- Located in or able to travel to Athens, Greece
Current Project: Komis
Komis' Story
Komis is a six-year-old dog who lost his leg in a hunting accident. After surviving the devastating floods in Volos, he now lives in Mellisia. As our first patient, Komis has been fitted with a custom 3D-printed prosthetic limb, designed specifically for his needs.
His prosthetic was created using our specialized process: creating a fiberglass cast of his limb, 3D scanning the cast, designing a digital model, prototyping, and finally producing the finished prosthetic. This advanced approach allows for precise customization at a fraction of the cost of traditional prosthetics.
Komis is currently in the adaptation phase, gradually increasing his activity level and confidence with the prosthetic. We're closely monitoring his progress and making adjustments as needed to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
Project Details:
- Custom 3D-printed prosthetic limb
- Lightweight, durable materials
- Adjustable fit for comfort
- Ongoing support and adjustments
Our Prosthetic Creation Process
We follow a precise, methodical approach to create custom prosthetics that perfectly fit each dog's unique anatomy and needs:
1. Casting
Create a fiberglass tape cast of the dog's limb to capture exact dimensions
2. Scanning
Digitize the cast using 3D scanning technology for precision
3. 3D Modeling
Design a digital model based on the scan with precise measurements
4. Prototyping
Create and test prototypes to ensure perfect fit and functionality
5. Final Product
Produce the finished prosthetic and fit it to the dog with adjustments
Komis' Journey & Prosthetic Development
1. Meeting Komis & Initial Assessment
Our journey began when we met Komis, a dog who had lost his limb in a hunting accident. After surviving the devastating floods in Volos, he needed help to regain his mobility. We conducted a thorough assessment to determine if he was a good candidate for a prosthetic.
2. 3D Modeling & Design
After creating a fiberglass cast of Komis' limb and scanning it, we developed a 3D model for his prosthetic. The design features a perforated structure to reduce weight while maintaining strength. These images show the digital model that guided our prototype creation.
3. Prototyping & Testing
Based on our 3D model, we created prototypes to test the design and make necessary adjustments. This critical phase allowed us to refine the prosthetic before creating the final version. We tested different components to ensure they would work together seamlessly.
4. Final Product Creation
After refining our design through multiple prototypes, we created the final prosthetic. The finished product includes adjustable straps for a secure fit while making it easy to put on and remove. Every detail was carefully considered to ensure comfort, durability, and functionality.
5. Fitting & Adaptation
The final stage involved fitting Komis with his new prosthetic and beginning the adaptation process. This phase requires patience as Komis gradually increases his wearing time and learns to use the prosthetic effectively. We continue to monitor his progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
Benefits of Our Prosthetics
Physical Benefits
- Improved Mobility: Our prosthetics restore natural movement patterns, allowing dogs to run, walk, and play with greater ease.
- Reduced Joint Strain: By restoring proper weight distribution, our prosthetics reduce strain on the remaining limbs, preventing secondary joint issues.
- Muscle Development: Regular use of the prosthetic helps maintain muscle mass and strength in the affected limb.
- Prevents Compensatory Issues: Dogs with limb loss often develop problems in other parts of their body due to compensatory movement. Prosthetics help prevent these secondary issues.
Psychological Benefits
- Increased Confidence: Dogs with prosthetics show remarkable improvements in confidence and willingness to engage in activities.
- Reduced Frustration: Improved mobility leads to less frustration and better overall mental health.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Dogs with prosthetics can participate more fully in family activities and interactions with other dogs.
- Restored Independence: The ability to move freely without assistance gives dogs back their sense of independence.
Technological Advantages
- Custom-Designed: Each prosthetic is precisely tailored to the individual dog's anatomy using our fiberglass casting and 3D scanning process.
- Lightweight Materials: Our 3D-printed prosthetics use advanced materials that are both durable and lightweight.
- Adjustable Design: Our prosthetics can be easily modified as the dog grows or as their needs change.
- Cost-Effective: Our process allows us to create prosthetics at 90% less cost than traditional methods.
- Rapid Iteration: We can quickly create and test multiple prototypes to find the optimal solution for each dog.
- Environmentally Friendly: Our production process creates minimal waste compared to traditional manufacturing.
Research & Development
We're constantly working to improve our prosthetic designs through ongoing research and development. Our current focus areas include:
- Advanced Materials: Testing new materials that offer improved durability, flexibility, and comfort
- Attachment Mechanisms: Developing better ways to secure prosthetics comfortably and safely
- Adaptation Protocols: Refining our methods for helping dogs adjust to their new prosthetics
- Long-term Outcomes: Studying the long-term effects and benefits of prosthetic use in dogs
Your donations directly support this research, helping us develop even better solutions for dogs with mobility challenges. Each improvement we make helps more dogs regain their mobility and independence.
Help Us Take On More Projects
Each prosthetic costs between 200-300 euros to produce, which is 90% less than traditional prosthetics. Your donation allows us to provide them free of charge to more dogs in need.