HEALTH AND NUTRITION When your dog or cat isn't feeling well, it's often difficult to determine the problem. But new technology is changing all that.
Imagine being able to continuously monitor your pet’s vital signs and activity by using a rechargeable collar and computer app. New technology now makes this possible.
In perspective
Mark Epstein, DVM, Medical Director, TotalBond Veterinary Hospitals, says this latest advance in pet care is crucial, since cats and dogs can't tell us what's going on.
“Although veterinarians are trained to recognize behavioral and physical signs of illness, the non-verbal patient creates challenges for the doctor, as well as the pet owner. Biometric wearable devices allow for pets to 'speak' to caregivers in a way never before possible, by conveying various physiologic parameters.”
Data talks
For home monitoring post-illness or post-surgery, for example, vets might detect a pet spiking an unexpected fever, or one that suddenly is less active, indicating a potential problem before it becomes more serious.
