I have no experience with this, but your question triggered a small research project. It looks like Doormate is a screw-drive automatic opening and closing door mechanism that retrofits on existing doors. Their website offeres installation details, and it looks like an easy DIY job. They even have a movie of the install and operation. Looks interesting, even lets the dog out.
http://www.liteline.com/doormate/
http://www.liteline.com/doormate/