Original Article: https://www.dogster.com/barking-news/is-pet-tech-the-new-vet
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If you’re reading this, you’re probably like me: a pet parent, auntie, uncle, or sibling, or you’re aspiring to be one of those at the very least. Pets are becoming more a part of the family each year, with a report of 4.8 million cats and dogs adopted in 2023 in the USA alone.1
And as pets evolve our families, so too does the way we care for them.
A recent survey conducted by HostingAdvice.com highlights the growing integration of cutting-edge technology into pet care routines. Pet parents are increasingly using smart devices to track everything from daily activity to vital signs.
Key Findings From the Survey
- 81% of owners now turn to tech for regular health checks and activity tracking instead of relying solely on routine vet visits
- 96% of pet owners now consider technology an essential part of their pet care practices
- 87% of pet owners believe that technology enhances their ability to care for their pets
- 80% of pet lovers say they’d spend $100 or more on pet tech
- 88% would use a pet tracking device to monitor their pet’s location and keep up to date on their adventures
- 89% of owners would love to use a pet camera to check on their fur babies when they’re away from home
- 79% of pet parents would rely on technology to track their pet’s health and activities
Methodology
In November 2024, HostingAdvice.com surveyed 500 individuals about their knowledge and use of pet technology. Respondents ranged from 18 to 65+ years old, with an average age of 26-45. Among the respondents, 55% were female and 44% were male, all based in the United States.
You can read the full survey results here.
Why Is Pet Tech Taking Over?
The surge in pet ownership following the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with millennials and Gen Z’s strong engagement with pet health and wellness, has created a need for emerging technologies. With a growing gap in available veterinary care, pet owners are finding innovative ways to meet their pets’ needs.
Due to a shortage of veterinarians, the return to in-office work, and the disposable income of pet parents, pet technology tools are becoming an invaluable addition to pet parents’ care routines. However, it is important to note that tech gadgets do not replace the position of a veterinary professional.
“Pet parents demand the same digital convenience in animal care that they expect in human healthcare,” said Joe Warnimont, HostingAdvice security and technical expert. “Smart devices deliver real-time health insights at a fraction of traditional care costs, putting vital data directly in pet parents’ hands.”
Millennials and Gen Zers often choose to welcome pets into their homes before having children, and many live as double-income-no-kids (DINKs), so they have more disposable income to spend on their fur babies, who have become integral parts of their families. And due to these generations managing their health and wellness through technologies like apps and wearables, it’s no surprise that traditional pet care is becoming more outdated, like traditional human healthcare.
“Modern pet parents view their animals as family members and expect family-quality care,” Warnimont added. “They demand instant access and are ready to invest in technology that treats pet health with the same urgency as human health.”
Veterinary Telehealth Technologies
From the pet tech evolution comes Vet TeleHealth. The survey didn’t touch on this, but one could infer that because so many pet parents are looking to replace in-person vet visits with pet technology, the veterinary telehealth industry is just getting started.
There are new companies like PangoVet, that provide you with the ability to speak to a real qualified veterinarian via video call from the comfort of your home. They also do not replace the need for physical clinics, rather, complement them by providing veterinary advice, triage support, personalized wellness plans, and preventative care.
To talk to a vet online now, click on the image or button below:
Balancing Pet Tech With Traditional Care
Regardless of survey results or whether you implement technology in the care routine of your pet, we recommend that you adhere to scheduled checkups by licensed veterinarians who will be able to diagnose and treat your pet(s).
When it comes to a pet’s safety and well-being, technology can’t replace the position of a trained professional.
Source: Dogster
