How to Keep an Eye on Your Pets When You Aren’t Home
Thanks to modern technology, you can stay on top of what your pets are up to even when you aren’t home, so you can take that trip without worrying as much about your furbabies.
Leaving your pets at home while you go on a business trip, family vacation, or even a short weekend getaway can be stressful. Will they be okay? What if something happens while you’re gone? What if they get lonely? If you find yourself asking these questions, rest assured that there are ways you can keep an eye on your furbabies even when you aren’t in the house with them.
Here are some tips you can implement to give yourself much-needed peace of mind, whether you want to check in on your pets during the workday or while you’re far from home.
Choose the Right Pet Sitter
Hiring a reputable and trustworthy pet sitter is important because you want to be sure that you’re leaving your pets in the best hands. In addition to finding someone who is gentle with animals and knowledgeable about pet care needs, it’s also a great idea to choose a pet sitter who will be more than happy to give you daily updates. Although you won’t be there to see what your pets are doing, a pet sitter who sends you photos and videos, and who is willing to video chat with you at least once a day, will help you rest assured that they’re doing fine.
Although there are plenty of professional pet sitters that you can choose from, also consider asking family or friends to care for your animals until you get back. This is a good route to take because your pets are already familiar with those individuals and will immediately feel at ease and comfortable around them. Plus, a friend or family member might be even more willing to check in with you multiple times a day to show you what your pets are up to.
Install Security Cameras
These days, there are many options you can choose from if you want to install a security system in your home. You can find indoor and outdoor security cameras and motion detectors that run on Wi-Fi and send alerts to your cell phone so you can be aware of activity while you aren’t home.
With an indoor camera, you can watch your pets throughout the day and night. Just keep in mind that, if a camera turns on only when it detects motion, as opposed to recording continuously, there might be instances in which your pets walk through and the camera doesn’t detect them or doesn’t capture video of them in time.
Use a Pet Camera
Another option is a pet camera, which is designed for pet parents who want to monitor their dogs and cats while they aren’t home. Like indoor security cameras, these can make it possible to check in whenever you want to see what your pet is doing, and can also send you alerts about activity.
Of course, different products will have different features, so shop with care and compare items to select the camera that’s right for you. For instance, you might choose one that dispenses treats, lets you play with your cat using a laser, or allows you to talk to your pet so they can hear your voice if you think this will bring them comfort.
To see what we mean, check out the Furbo 360° Dog Camera, as one example of what’s available. It provides a rotating 360-degree view, and it can track your pet as they move across the room. Plus, you can zoom in if you need to, and you can keep an eye on your pet’s nocturnal activities with color night vision. You can also listen to your pet and talk to them, give them treats, and receive alerts.
Use a GPS Pet Tracker
It’s worth considering getting a GPS tracker designed for pets, whether you’re worried about your dog running off while going for a walk with the pet sitter or you’re concerned about your kitty darting out the front door. It can alert you to your pet’s location so you always know where they are. And if your pet does end up getting lost, this type of tracker may make it easier to locate your furry companion.
There are many GPS trackers for pets on the market today, so you can shop around, compare the different products and their features, and read reviews until you find the one that suits your needs, budget, and preferences.
One example is the Whistle Switch Smart Collar. It can provide information about your pet’s location and activity 24 hours a day, so you’ll know when they went for a walk, when they played, and when they slept. You can also set up escape alerts so you’ll know if your pet isn’t in their safe space. Plus, this product can help you monitor your pet’s health.
Note: Even if you’re using a GPS tracker, make sure your pet is also wearing a collar with an ID tag that has your contact information. That way, if they get lost and someone finds them, they’ll know how to get in touch with you.
A Combination of Products for Peace of Mind
With so many products that you can use to track your pet’s location and see what they’re doing, you can be away from home with less concern about your furry friend’s well-being. Consider installing a camera to view your furbaby at any time of the day or night, work with a pet sitter who’s communicative, and have your companion wear a GPS tracker just in case they get lost. Take advantage of these modern options to make going away easier and less stressful.
Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.
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