Ollie has secured a patent for technology that predicts parasite fecal test results from smartphone photos of dog stool. The AI-powered tool, integrated into the company's health screening app, determines with 85% accuracy whether a stool sample will test positive for intestinal parasites without laboratory analysis.
The technology aims to help pet owners identify potential health concerns early and seek confirmatory testing from veterinarians. The patent represents Ollie's first application of predictive stool analysis in the pet food industry.
"With over 80% of dog parks testing positive for parasites, pet owners often have no idea their dogs may be exposed and potentially carrying and transferring parasites to other dogs," said Tara Zedayko, chief scientific officer at Ollie. "This patent acts as a first line of defense, allowing dog parents to proactively manage their pet's health and prevent the spread of parasites."
The tool will enable Ollie's health screening platform to indicate whether pet owners should bring stool samples to veterinarians for confirmatory testing.
"Our AI tools are being implemented as ways to support our pet parents anytime, anywhere," Zedayko said. "By seamlessly integrating advanced stool analysis technology into member tools, Ollie continues to set new industry standards for proactively managing pet health and wellness."
The company has not announced a launch date for the patented technology. This marks Ollie's third health screening patent and follows the company's acquisition of DIG Labs.
