Story and photos by Kelly Stenka
At nearly 2 years old, Nugget, a mini goldendoodle, has never let having three legs slow her down. But thanks to the innovation of Doane University engineering students, she is getting an opportunity to test out something entirely new — a prosthetic leg designed just for her.
The idea took root when Mohamed Amar, assistant professor of engineering at Doane, met Nugget through his daughter’s horseback riding lessons with Diane Usher. Nugget, full of puppy energy, wasn’t necessarily inhibited by her missing limb, but Amar saw an opportunity. What if his students could create a prosthetic leg to support her as she grew older?
Excited by the challenge, Amar brought the idea to the engineering faculty, and soon, a new class project was born. Associate Professor Cale Stolle took the lead, guiding a group of sophomore and junior engineering students through the process of designing a custom prosthetic.
Armed with 3D printing technology and plenty of enthusiasm, the students got to work, tackling key questions such as size, flexibility, durability and comfort. Two initial prototypes were developed, and Nugget returned for additional measurements, giving students a chance to refine their designs and improve their work.
But this project extends beyond just one happy pup. The engineering department brought in faculty from biology and exercise science to help students explore broader questions: How can the prosthetic be optimized for Nugget’s movement? Could this design be adapted for other animals? What is the long-term potential for a project like this?
“The groundwork these students have put into coming up with ideas, testing ideas, developing a model, coming up with a final design, kind of working through how to start with not having any experience, and finish with, you know, being able to communicate with industry experts — just that process is something that is very valuable,” Stolle said.
By collaborating across disciplines, the students are not just building a prosthetic — they are gaining real-world problem-solving experience that could evolve into a long-term initiative. There is even discussion about expanding the project to serve the broader community by designing prosthetics for other pets in need.
For now, though, Nugget is the perfect first test subject. With a wagging tail and boundless energy, she is inspiring “pawsitive” innovation, ensuring that Doane engineers continue making a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
