Pet health and activity trackers are emerging in the market, yet experts remain divided on their effectiveness. As owners utilize wearable technology to monitor their own health, companies have launched devices aimed at tracking pet fitness. A report by Future Market Insights predicts that the market for pet fitness trackers will reach $450 million (£333 million) by 2035.
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Bryan Becker, a 52-year-old Wisconsin resident, has found the trackers beneficial for his two-year-old rescue dog, Kodak, who faces several health challenges including anxiety, deafness, and vision impairment. Becker noted that the tracker helped establish a baseline for Kodak's activity and sleep patterns, which was crucial in determining the right dosage for his anti-anxiety medication. He emphasized the importance of ensuring Kodak remained active and happy during treatment.
Conversely, Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux, senior vice-president of the British Veterinary Association, cautioned that while fitness trackers can offer insights, they may also lead to unnecessary stress if data is misinterpreted. She pointed out that vital health information can often be gathered from routine observations of pets. Dr. Mullineaux advised pet owners to consult their veterinarians with any concerns rather than relying solely on technology.
Companies producing these trackers argue they provide significant benefits. Martin Theißen, chief marketing officer of Tractive, highlighted that pets often conceal pain, and early detection via health alerts can prompt timely veterinary intervention. Jonathan Bensamoun, founder of Fi, mentioned that while excess data can be overwhelming, properly interpreted data can contribute to longer, healthier lives for pets. He noted that human observation may not always detect gradual health changes, especially during off-hours.
An estimated 50% of dogs are considered overweight, and advocates of pet fitness trackers suggest these devices can assist owners in achieving appropriate activity levels and addressing obesity. Bensamoun remarked that many pet owner visits to the vet stem from weight-related issues, and veterinarians may hesitate to discuss weight concerns.
Andrew Nowell, head of the pet tracker company Pitpatpet, pointed out that fitness trackers capture valuable data that might not be evident during veterinary visits, especially when pets are stressed. Amanda Boag, vice-principal for clinical services at the Royal Veterinary College, acknowledged that the field of pet health trackers is still developing. She expressed optimism about their potential, stating that they could enhance animal wellbeing and improve communication between veterinarians and pet owners, aiding in the early detection of certain conditions.