HOUSTON – You don't need a leash these days to keep track of your dog. There are new modern ways to watch their every move.
Local 2 consumer expert Amy Davis found some of the latest pet technology.
Man's best friend may not clamor for the latest high tech gadgets, but many pet owners are willing to pay big money for them.
"Never underestimate the ability of people to pay for or use services for their pets. They will do anything," said Cnet.com senior editor Dan Ackerman.
The latest gadget for pets and their owners is called "tagg." It's a GPS tracking device that attaches to a dog's collar. Along with location, it also monitors the pet's activity.
"So when we recommend, hey your dog needs to get "x" amount of exercise per day, we can actually log onto their account as well and see if they're doing their homework," said dog trainer Gretchen Hollifield.
The Tagg unit costs about $100 and does have a monthly service fee.
The "Marco Polo" is another pet tracking unit that relies on a radio signal instead of cellular networks.
"What they do is charge you more upfront for the system, about $200, or twice as much, but you don't have to pay an ongoing monthly fee," Ackerman explained.
Marco Polo's makers say its battery can also last up to three months on a single charge.
Numerous wireless cameras are an option, including, the dropcam WiFi monitoring system, which costs about $150. Dropcam provides activity alerts to your computer or smartphone along with a reassuring view.
"You can monitor your dog when you're not there, monitor their progress, if you're working on something like separation anxiety, and you can actually speak to them when you're not there," explained trainer Danielle Kharman.
"Petziconnect" is not yet available, but it's another pet camera in the works. That product lets you see and speak to your pet from a remote location and it will also dispense a treat with a touch on your smartphone. It's scheduled to be on the market in late 2013 or early 2014.