Colorado State University researchers are creating an anatomically correct mechanical dog’s head that will help acupuncture students practice their craft without having to "stress" a live animal while learning.

“SimPooch” is a collaborative effort between engineering and acupuncture students, and will give both a chance to practice the skills they need to succeed, CSU officials said.

The model of a Labrador retriever mimics the feel of inserting needles through skin, muscle and fat. It can also display whether the needles have been placed accurately.

"SimPooch can be a teaching tool and a testing tool. Since the model is portable, students can learn and test it anywhere. No live dogs are needed, and students can practice their techniques over and over again without causing stress to live animals," Narda Robinson, an assistant professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences, said in a statement. "Anatomy is the basis of medicine and, as such, is the basis of acupuncture.”

See www.coloradoan.com for updates and Thursday’s Coloradoan for full details.