Written by Dr. Keri Riddick, GVMA Executive Director
Pet Wearables is an emerging technology of devices designed to monitor animal health and collect data that is interpreted by AI software to make predictions and decisions.
Wearable technology is transforming veterinary care by providing real-time health data, but it cannot replace the need for a hands-on physical examination. Physical exams are essential for assessing overall health, identifying external issues, and detecting internal abnormalities—key components of a veterinarian’s standard of care.
With the growing availability of smart collars and at-home diagnostic tools, pet owners can now monitor key health parameters like temperature, heart rate, respiration, activity levels, blood glucose, and even seizure-related metrics. When a veterinarian has already seen the patient, these tools can serve as an extension of their care. The DVM’s intimate knowledge of the animal allows for a more accurate interpretation of the collected data, helping them provide better, more informed treatment plans.
For animals not yet seen in person, veterinarians can still utilize data from wearable technology, but their role is limited to offering tele-advice, as medical decisions cannot be made without a prior physical exam. This blend of hands-on care and digital tools ensures that veterinary professionals can deliver the best outcomes for their patients.
The following is a list of a few of the pet wearable devices that are available on the market:
- Maven AI-Vet: Smart collar that collects detailed pet health data
- Mella Pet Care: At-home diagnostic tools designed to help with telehealth
- Pet Pace: Smart collar continuously monitors various parameters related to seizures, including temperature, pulse, HRV, posture, and activity patterns
- Sylvester.ai: Automatically assesses a cat’s pain level.
We’d love to hear how your practice is using wearables to manage patient health. Email Dr. Riddick at keri@gvma.net with your recommended devices and how they complement your care.
