Handy Digital Tools for People Who Share Their Lives With Dogs
Rowan Carter
Digital Helpers for Dog Guardians
Caring for a dog can resemble raising a child in plenty of ways. At some point you may need to arrange for someone to watch your pet, book a hotel that welcomes animals, organize meetups with other dogs, or ensure training is on track. And if something urgent happens, you will want guidance on what to do when a veterinarian is not immediately reachable.
Since smartphones and internet access are common, these situations do not have to be stressful. The following apps address a range of needs.
1. Rover
Picture this: you have taken your dog along on a family holiday, but you want to do something that is not really suited to pets. Or perhaps a work trip comes up at the last minute, or you would rather not leave your dog home alone while you spend time with friends. Inside the app, you can set how far you are willing to travel for boarding or look for a sitter close by. After choosing a sitter, you can send messages directly through the app.
Options include drop-in visits at your home, boarding at the sitter's place, walks, or daycare. For those with animal care experience, this can work well as a side gig to earn some extra money.
2. Bring Fido
When you enjoy traveling with your pet but are unsure of where to go, this app helps you locate pet-friendly hotels, attractions, events, and restaurants in your area. Reviews and hotel rate comparisons are also available.
That saves time, so you do not have to spend the day scrolling through endless Google results.
3. Barkhappy
This free app lets you set up a profile for yourself and your dog, then find other dogs nearby. You can also message other pet parents or dogs, arrange your own playdates, or look for dog-friendly events.
Should your pet wander off alone, you can create a lost dog profile or check updates about found dogs.
4. Everydoggy
Video lessons, tricks, games, and fixes for common dog issues are all part of this app. On first opening it, you answer a few simple questions, and a customized plan is built for you and your dog.
A free 3-day trial is offered; after that, the cost is $19.99 per month.
Apps are a good way to keep medical records, phone numbers or have access to help whenever you need it.
5. Puppr
This app offers a free version plus monthly and yearly subscriptions. A built-in clicker sits at the bottom, so buying one separately is unnecessary.
The free version is limited but still covers the most basic commands and how-tos, including crate training, ear cleaning, and potty training. A subscription unlocks more training videos and the chance to speak with a dog trainer if you have further questions.
For treats, crates, grooming supplies, toys, or cleaning products, Puppr includes a supply shop where many daily essentials for your pet can be found.
6. Petdesk
Here you can set reminders for medication, appointments, and vaccinations, and keep veterinary, boarding, and grooming information together in one place. You can also look for the nearest veterinary clinic and keep emergency numbers accessible.
If pet insurance is not already in place, you can search for a provider through this app too.
7. Ikibble
Have you ever wondered what your dog is allowed to eat and what is off-limits? For $0.99 upfront, this app provides a list of foods your pup can and cannot have, with explanations of why each is or is not good for your pet.
8. Pet First Aid: American Red Cross
This app can assist in many frightening situations, for both dogs and cats. It covers how to take vitals and what to do in cases such as electric shock, frostbite, choking, allergic reactions, and more.
For pet owners, this one is an absolute must. When your pet needs help, recognizing the signs immediately and knowing what to do before reaching the veterinarian matters.
