A couple of weeks ago we shared some of the wearable tech products focused on GPS locators for finding a loose or missing dog. This week we’re taking a look at the wellness products, those designed to monitor your dog’s activity and body readings. There are a lot of similarities, with each of these at least tracking when and how much your dog is active or not. The data is then transmitted to your account for review and analysis. This isn’t a review and we’re not here to judge, but it is pretty obvious that some are better than others. Also, we still expect many of these devices to either combine forces with GPS trackers like Whistle and Tagg have done, or add the GPS tracking feature. Either way, it’s great to see more and more technology helping us better monitor, track, and become aware of our dog’s health and whether there may be an issue which should be treated by a veterinarian. A healthy dog is a happy dog.
Heyrex
Extending pet care beyond your hospital door.
Heyrex is an activity monitor that connects to your dog’s regular collar and records and transmits the data collected to a receiver each time your dog is in range. The Heyrex measures activity levels, mobility, scratching, resting patterns and sleep disturbances. The more it is worn the better and more accurate your dog’s profile will be. When the data indicates a change in behavior, either good or bad, an automatic notice is sent. The data is easy to read in simple infographics available by logging into the Heyrex website from a desktop computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Otto PetCare Systems
The only integrated wellbeing solution for your pet.
The Otto PetCare system integrates activity monitoring with food dispensing. The activity monitor attaches to your pet’s collar and uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to track and record their movements throughout the day. The data is uploaded wirelessly to the Otto PetCare Systems cloud services to provide you with the reports as well as compare against the activity of other pets of similar size, breed, age, weight, etc.
This activity data is then used to help calculate your pet’s specific nutrition requirements and coordinates with the automated food dispenser to make sure your pet always gets the food they need at the right time. You can also log into the system and dispense food on command, as well as use the included secure webcam and microphone so you can see, hear, and talk to your pet during feeding times.
Voyce
The wearable band that let’s you monitor your dog’s health and wellness
Voyce is a bit unique in that instead of attaching to your dog’s collar, the entire unit is a collar of its own. When worn it will monitor and record your dog’s heart rate, respiratory rate, activity, rest, and calories using non-invasive sensors which do not require prongs or skin-contact. The data is collected and organized and presented in an easy to read format to identify trends and share with you veterinarian. A subscription also includes articles and expert tips tailored to your dog and you can set goals to keep you and your pet both on track for their best health.
Petpace
Monitoring your pet’s health
PetPace is also a full-collar system which will continually monitor your pet’s temperature, pulse, respiration, activity, positions and calories. The data is sent wirelessly to the PetPace site, accessible via computer or smartphone to help you analyze and share with your veterinarian. When any changes in health or behavior are cause for concern, automatic alerts are immediately sent to keep you informed.
FitBark
Dog Activity Monitor
FitBark is a collar attachable available in five colors (blue, pink, grey, red, and green) and shaped like a cute little bone weighing only 8 grams and less than 2 inches in length. Of all the wearables listed here it seems to offer the fewest features and only monitors when the dog is active or not. We’re hoping there will be more features and information when it gets closer to market.