A journey of design and social commitment.
In 2022, when I was a student of Fashion Design at Senai, I had the opportunity to participate in an action that showed much more than I could imagine. The Wheeled Dog Project together with the Company Wap and the Senai Campus of Industry, created a mission that united the knowledge of different courses to develop a wheelchair for pets with motor disabilities, using waste materials from the company Wap.
For me, as a fashion student, this experience was a real challenge and a deep learning. I was one of the responsible for the textile part of the project, focusing on the safety and comfort of pets who would use the wheelchair. The goal was to create something that not only worked well, but also provided a comfortable experience for the animals and made caring easier for the guardians.
It was fascinating to study other wheelchairs and understand the needs of disabled pets. After a lot of research, we had the idea to use matelasse in the supports of body for animals, it made me realize how much fashion design can positively impact the life of living beings in ways I never imagined. With the choice of these materials, we sought to offer a cushioned layer that would reduce friction and, consequently, avoid wounds that could arise in pets, and due to their deficiency could worsen over time. Each step of this process was marked by a delicate balance between design, ergonomics and functionality.
The most rewarding was to see the impact of our work. Talk with tutors to understand each one’s experience. This project not only taught me about the importance of combining design and functionality, but also opened doors for a volunteer path with Cão de Rodinhas. I always loved dogs, currently have 7, but I’ve already had 15 dogs, never bought, most adopted, reviled or gift from people who know our love for pets. So I started attending events and meetings to raise awareness of pet guardians, with or without disabilities, and the message was clear: love and care have no limitations.
Over time, my journey in the project evolved and I started to act as an intern. In this new role, my focus turned to the creation of specific products to better meet the needs of pets and their guardians. The work was challenging, far from my comfort zone, many tests and conversations with modeling professionals, ergonomics and choice of suitable materials were necessary.
Constant testing and adjustment was essential to ensure our products were safe and effective. It was amazing to see the interest of tutors and brands that support the project. The certainty that we were making a difference in the lives of pets and their guardians was an indescribable reward.
Today, we continue to adjust and improve our product ideas, I feel a great satisfaction in seeing how our dedication is transforming lives. The next step is to always go forward, with confidence that, with more support, we will achieve our goals and further impact the lives of these animals and their guardians.
Following link with the full article:
https://globoplay.globo.com/v/11639952/
Cristiane Prado Rocco
por agência de marketing digital 
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