There is no instruction manual on how to be the perfect pet owner. Luckily, there are many resources you can rely on. Tap or click for nine things Kim buys for her dog Abby that your dog deserves, too.
There are apps for veterinary care, nutrition, grooming and even plain old getting social with other local dog moms and cat dads.
With so many options, knowing which apps are best is challenging. Don’t worry. We’ve done the work for you. Keep reading for five of the best apps for pet owners.
1. Pet First Aid
Just like any other member of your family, your animal companion may find themselves compromised by illness, injury, or even things like an allergic reaction. When disaster strikes, where can you turn?
RELATED: The best way to keep an eye on your pets inside and out
This app, sponsored by the American Red Cross, is your one-stop shop for everything related to your pet’s health. You’ll find step-by-step emergency guides, a vet locator, and even a fun quiz section where you can put your knowledge to the ultimate test. The app is available for iOS and Android.
2. PetParents
PetParents is a virtual marketplace for pet owners. You can connect with small brands in your niche and area and other pet owners hoping to let go of gently-used, secondhand offerings like beds and scratching posts.
It’s a great way to find deals on excellent stuff and even vouchers, samples and other promotions on their wares. If you love to give your pet something new to try, this is a perfect place to find something extraordinary.
If you’ve got an entrepreneurial bug, it’s also a great way to market your all-organic dog treats through in-app ads. It’s available for iOS and Android.
3. BarkHappy
BarkHappy is so much more than a dog-walking app. It can connect you to other pet owners in your area and show you all the best dog-friendly spots and venues for your next big outing.
There’s also a section designed to help reunite owners with lost dogs, and its handy reporting feature means if you see something, you can say something.
Now, whenever you hit the town with your pal on a whim, you’ll know exactly whether there will be a cool bowl of water for them. Talk about service. BarkHappy is available for iOS and Android.
4. Rover
Rover is the bougie telehealth app for pets we never knew we needed. Instead of veterinarians, it offers you a map of reputable, five-star dog sitters and dog walkers you can trust with Fido worry-free.
All you have to do is choose what you need, add your pup’s profile, and many pre-approved contenders will come rushing into your feed. Even if you just need somebody to feed your cat twice a day while you’re out of town, this app for pets has got your back.
You might even be able to make some extra money on the side. The Rover app is available for iOS and Android.
RELATED: Buying a pet? Do this first or you could get scammed
5. 11pets
Pets are a lot of work, especially if you adore them. Grooming, de-worming, estrous care, and even bathing them may amount to what feels like an endless list of chores.
Now, there’s a dedicated app for all things pet care. 11pets is a collaboration between pet owners and professionals that allows you to share information directly with your pet care provider.
It also features a journal that allows you to document critical incidents or changes in your pet’s health. New medications, new specialists involved in their vet routine, and emerging conditions can be stored in one convenient place. NOTE: 11pets is available for Android but not iOS devices.
You may also like: Need some calm? Listen to the sounds of forests around the world