6 apps for 4-legged friends

Whistle 3
Whistle 3
photo Whistle 3

You wouldn't trade the love of your cat or dog for anything, but pet parents know that caring for an animal can be a lot of work. These apps make it easier to keep your furry friends happy and healthy even when you're on the go.

Whistle 3

Price: $79.95 for device + $9.95/month

Available on: Android and Apple devices

Good for: Pets who like to roam

Using GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular signals, this app ensures your four-legged friend can't stray too far. Set up "safe" areas and you'll get a notification if your pet leaves that area, plus GPS coordinates to help you track them. If you want to put your pet's guided wanderings to good use, you can also set health and activity goals. The wearable device will track activity and rest and turn that into comprehensible information so you can check progress.

BarkHappy

Price: Free

Available on: Android and Apple devices

Good for: Social butterflies (and dogs)

This social media app is like dating for dogs. Find and meet other nearby dog owners; even discover dog-friendly establishments near you, be it a park, hotel or restaurant. You can read up on a business's pet policies and amenities beforehand, after picking your doggy date from the profiles of compatible pooches in your area.

Rover

Price: Free to download

Available on: Android and Apple devices

Good for: Pet parents with a busy lifestyle - so basically everyone with pets

Rover matches users with local dog-walkers, house-sitters and pet-boarders, certifying and insuring every care provider so you can know your four-legged love is in good hands. Plus, you'll receive updates and photos from your care provider and a GPS map of your pet's walks. Service prices start around $20.

Pawprint

Price: Free

Available on: Android and Apple devices

Good for: The pet owner that always forgets when the visit to the vet is coming up

Pawprint brings your pet's official medical records to your fingertips. After you've retrieved your veterinary records for free, you can use the app to keep track of important events in your pet's life and set reminders for everything from flea medications to grooming dates.

Pet First Aid

Price: Free

Available on: Android and Apple devices

Good for: Anyone who loves their pet

This app, brought to you by the American Red Cross, offers pet parents a quick and easy way to decipher a pet's behavior and cross-check against potential symptoms. Learn what to do with step-by-step guides and how-to videos, and access your vet's contact details all in the same place.

Pooch

Price: Free

Available on: Apple devices

Good for: Young dogs, and old dogs looking to learn new tricks

This app helps you train your pup. It provides personalized lesson plans, plus tips and tricks to make the training process faster and more fun for you and your canine companion.

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