These days, there's an app for everything. Whatever your passion, goal or professional concern, some kind of digital assistance awaits you just a few clicks away. As a pet owner, these apps can help with everything from health and clinic scheduling, to quickly locating and hiring dog-walkers or sitters. In this article, we look at some of the more useful pet-centered apps, helping you hone in on what best suits your needs. ​Install the ones that fit your lifestyle and you’ll have a rock-solid, tech-powered care plan at your fingertips. 

Note: PAWS/LA is not affiliated with any of the following apps or companies. Nor have we received any recompense, financial or otherwise, to include a product on this list.

Woofz offers the broadest lesson library—from puppy basics to separation-anxiety drills—and its developers push new content every few weeks.
 
For trick enthusiasts, Puppr delivers photo and video lessons from celebrity trainer Sara Carson and lets you log progress in-app. 
​
If you prefer five-minute daily tasks, Dogo gamifies obedience with a built-in clicker and personalised schedules, making it especially effective for first-time owners. 

When midnight tummy troubles strike, Airvet connects you to a licensed vet by video or chat in minutes; more than 250 000 pet parents have already used the service, and many employers now subsidize it as a wellness perk.  

Need a formal diagnosis or prescription? Vetster runs scheduled tele-appointments starting around $50 and can e-scribe meds where regulations allow.  

With GPS technology, keeping track of your pet's location is easier than ever. Services likeTractive GPS make devices you can attach to your cat and dog, enabling you to check on them in real time using an app on your phone. These devices can also monitor health activity, tracking your pet's sleep and exercise habits. After acquiring Whistle and announcing that Whistle devices will shut down on August 31 2025, Tractive is now the main player in this space. Their plans start at about $5/month and now bundle heart- and respiratory-rate analytics.

If your dog slips the leash, post on PawBoost. Your alert pings a 5-million-member Rescue Squad, pushes to local shelter feeds, and auto-generates social posts—all for free, with optional paid ad boosts for extra reach. 

​Rover remains the biggest network for insured walkers, sitters, and day-care. Its Rover Guarantee covers up to $25 000 in vet bills for eligible incidents—read the March 2025 ToS update so you know the fine print.

​Whether you’re chasing cool mountain trails or booking a downtown hotel, BringFido filters more than 500 000 pet-friendly spots worldwide and includes user reviews plus airline-policy look-ups—indispensable for road-warriors and vacationers alike.

When disaster strikes, every second counts. For pet owners, emergency planning isn’t just about securing human lives--it’s also about safeguarding the furry, feathered, or scaled family members who depend on us. Fires and other emergencies can happen without warning, and your pets may not be able to escape or survive on their own. Having a well-practiced emergency plan is the best way to ensure they are protected and rescued quickly. 
​
In lieu of Pet Fire Safety Day (July 15th), this guide covers essential fire safety strategies and emergency preparedness tips designed specifically for households with pets. ​

Creating an emergency plan is the foundation of safety. Your plan should include: 

• Escape routes from your home. 

• Who is responsible for which pet, especially in multi-pet or multi-person households. 

• A designated meeting point outside the home. 

• A backup person (neighbor or local friend) who can rescue your pets if you’re not home. ​

Make sure every family member knows the plan and practices it regularly. Involve pets by training them to come when called, even under stress or noise. ​

Firefighters will search for pets if they know they’re inside. Place a rescue alert sticker or window cling near your front and back doors. These decals should include: 

• Number and types of pets inside 

• Your name and emergency phone number 

• Your veterinarian’s contact information 

Update this information regularly, especially after adopting a new pet or moving. ​

Fires can break out while you’re not home. Whenever possible: 

• Confine pets to areas near an exit. 
  

• Avoid closed rooms or deep interior spaces. 
  

• Use pet gates instead of closing doors to keep them visible and accessible. 
  

This increases the chance they’ll be spotted and rescued by first responders. ​

In an emergency, your pet may be frightened and try to flee. Having leashes, carriers, or harnesses ready near exits allows for faster, safer evacuations. 

Each pet should have their own: 

• Sturdy carrier or crate 

• Collar with ID and leash 

• Muzzle if needed for safety 
• ​
  

Place them near main exits or your emergency go-bag so you’re not scrambling to find them. ​

Microchipping dramatically increases the chances of being reunited with a lost pet. Make sure: 

• Your contact information is up to date with the chip registry. 

• Your pet wears a collar with a tag that includes your name and phone number. ​

​
During emergencies, pets often run in fear and can get lost. Visible identification and a microchip mitigate these dangers. ​

Smoke alarms are a must, but consider monitored fire alarm systems that alert emergency services when you're not home. Some systems can even notify you via smartphone and allow for remote camera checks or door unlocking. 
​
A monitored system ensures a faster response time, increasing the likelihood of pet rescue if you’re away. ​

Practice evacuating with your pets regularly—at least twice a year. This helps: 

• Reduce panic during a real emergency 

• Train pets to enter carriers or follow commands quickly 

• Identify challenges ahead of time (like pets hiding under beds) 

Reward pets with treats after each drill to reinforce positive behavior. ​

Research local: 

• Pet-friendly shelters 

• Boarding facilities 

• Animal control or disaster response teams 

Keep a list of these contacts in your emergency plan. If you have to evacuate to a shelter, pets may not always be allowed unless it's a pet-friendly facility or co-shelter. ​

Disasters are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. With a thoughtful, well-rehearsed plan, you can significantly improve the chances of protecting your pets in a fire or emergency. Pets trust us with their lives. Let’s do everything we can to honor that trust when it matters most. 
 ​

At PAWS/LA it’s our mission to help support our clients with the financial and organizational challenges of pet ownership. Those we work with share an indelible bond with their pets and are committed to offering them the best possible life. The worst possible case is that somebody with this level of dedication and commitment would be forced to part with their companion animal due to difficulties that are beyond their control. We make sure these pet owners can meet their own high standards of pet ownership.

​But it’s not always easy—even if you don’t face financial hardship or physical limitations.
 
Responsible pet ownership goes beyond providing food, shelter, and veterinary care; it encompasses a commitment to their well-being, behavior training, and environmental impact. In this blog post, we will delve into the core principles of responsible pet ownership, offering valuable insights and practical tips to help you become the kind of pet parent we see our clients, volunteers and other members of the PAWS/LA family try to be.

​The foundation of responsible pet ownership lies in meeting your pet's basic needs. These include proper nutrition, access to clean water, a safe and comfortable living environment, and regular veterinary care. Ensure you provide a balanced and appropriate diet based on your pet's species, age, and health requirements. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments will keep your pet healthy and protect them from diseases.
 
Create a safe and secure environment for your pet by pet-proofing your home, removing hazards, and providing appropriate containment if necessary. Provide a cozy bed, toys for mental stimulation, and a designated area for them to retreat to when they need space. Regular grooming and hygiene practices, such as bathing and nail trimming, are essential to maintain your pet's well-being.

​Responsible pet ownership involves investing time and effort in behavioral training. Proper training not only enhances your pet's quality of life but also promotes a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend. Start with basic obedience training, including commands like sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work wonders in encouraging desired behavior.
 
Socialization is vital for pets to develop good manners and interact well with other animals and people. Gradually introduce your pet to new experiences, environments, and individuals, ensuring positive interactions throughout the process. Training should also address common behavioral issues like excessive barking, chewing, or aggression. Seek professional help if needed, as behavior problems can often be addressed effectively with guidance from a qualified trainer or behaviorist.

​Pets require regular exercise and mental stimulation to lead healthy and happy lives. Dogs, for instance, need daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for socializing with other dogs. Cats, on the other hand, benefit from interactive toys, scratching posts, and vertical spaces for climbing. Enrichment activities like puzzle toys, food-dispensing toys, and training sessions engage your pet's mind and prevent boredom.
 
Consider your pet's specific needs and energy levels when designing an exercise routine. Engaging in activities together not only strengthens the bond between you and your pet but also promotes their overall well-being. Remember, a tired pet is often a well-behaved pet!

​Responsible pet ownership extends beyond the confines of your home. Consider the environmental impact of your pet and take steps to minimize it. Dispose of pet waste properly, preferably in designated areas or with biodegradable bags. Clean up after your pet during walks to ensure cleanliness and prevent the spread of diseases.
 
Choose eco-friendly pet products, including biodegradable poop bags, natural grooming supplies, and sustainable pet toys. Opt for eco-conscious pet food brands that use sustainable sourcing practices and packaging.

​Being a responsible pet owner entails more than just providing the essentials; it requires dedication, patience, and a genuine love for your pet. By meeting their basic needs, investing in training, providing stimulation, and considering the environmental impact, you can ensure your pet leads a happy and healthy life. Responsible pet ownership not only benefits your furry companion but also fosters a more compassionate and sustainable society. So, embrace the responsibilities of pet ownership and cherish the incredible bond you share with your beloved pet.