In Brazil, over 20% of diseases found in dogs are skin-related. This issue impacts both pet owners and veterinarians, requiring solutions that optimize diagnosis and follow-up of these conditions.
FurDog was developed as an application aimed at pre-diagnosing skin diseases in dogs using machine learning, with a model trained on more than 8,000 images. The project was created within the Apple Developer Academy program and presented at the UCB in Brasília during its graduation event.
Facilitate the pre-diagnosis of skin diseases in dogs for both pet owners and veterinarians.
Ensure the app is accessible to diverse audiences.
Create a scalable solution capable of monitoring diseases in other species and integrating veterinarians into the registration process.
Develop a visual identity aligned with the app’s concept and presentation materials.
This project used the Challenge Based Learning (CBL) methodology, combined with elements of Design Thinking.
Brainstorm
Mind Map
Research of existents pet skin diseases datasets and articles
Definition of which pet to approach
Interview with coordinator of the veterinary dermatology department at Unesp
Target Audience definition
User personas
Low and medium prototypes
User flow
Research of existing image sets
Design System
High-fidelity prototypes
Implementation
Test Flight submission
FurDog provides an intuitive interface where pet owners can submit photos of their dog’s skin for pre-diagnosis, supported by accessibility features like screen reading and adjustable fonts. The app integrates:
A machine learning model trained with a robust image database.
Inclusive tools to ensure usability for a wide range of users.
Plans for future versions with functionalities for veterinarians, disease monitoring, and multi-species applications.
Additionally, a visual identity was developed to reflect the app's friendly and innovative nature, applied to both the UI and presentation materials.
Challenges:
Tight deadlines for idea development and app creation.
Identifying and creating a database to distinguish healthy fur from problematic conditions.
Preparing bilingual presentations for the Apple team and other stakeholders.
Adapting presentations for events like the Apple Developer Academy graduation at UCB in Brasília.
Learnings:
Development of problem-solving, time management, and business strategy skills.
Improvement in public speaking and technical communication in English.
Broadened expertise in UX, data, and digital accessibility.
Enhanced ability to create visual identities and align them with project presentations and marketing materials.
ALINE REIS SILVA
São Paulo, Brasil