Durham College students explore AI's role in animal welfare

Durham College students are exploring how artificial intelligence is changing animal care, including how emerging technologies can support animal welfare, the college says.

Students in the college's Animal Care program, which is to be renamed Veterinary Assistant in September 2027, are learning how AI is being explored and applied in industry settings, from veterinary diagnostics to wildlife conservation, Durham College says.

Corey Gill, a professor and AI consultant from the college's Centre for Teaching and Learning, recently spoke with students in the Issues in Animal Care course about real examples from animal care, including tools that support veterinary diagnostics, monitor pets' health at home and help identify habitat loss.

"Whether a student is entering business, healthcare, skilled trades, construction, or another field, AI literacy is becoming a transferable skill," said Gill. Students also considered when AI should be trusted, who is accountable when it gets something wrong, and how to balance efficiency with animal welfare, the college says.

Student Alicia Vrantsidis said AI can be a valuable tool to support veterinary care, especially when it comes to monitoring patients for signs of pain, but that regulations are needed to ensure it is used ethically. Professor Keri Semenko said it is important students understand both the opportunities and the challenges the technologies present so they can make informed decisions in their future careers, the college says.

The college says it will continue to explore opportunities to connect students with expertise from across disciplines, building on the positive response to the session.