Let’s face it, it’s impossible to overshare our pets online; who doesn’t love seeing adorable puppy pictures? But in today’s tech-savvy world, pet owners aren’t just posting cute pics — they’re using technology to improve their daily lives with their furry companions. Many of these technologies are convenient, but are they safe to use?
Secure Data Recovery surveyed over 1,000 Americans about their experiences using pet tech products. We explored the most outstanding features, the pitfalls, and significant effects these devices have had on both pets and owners.
Moreover, we examined how far Americans are willing to go when it comes to sacrificing personal data or security for the sake of their beloved pets’ comfort. Read on to discover how our findings shed light on the intersection of technology, privacy, and pet care.
Key Findings
- Nearly half (46%) of pet owners are willing to risk privacy in order to experience the benefits of pet tech.
- Majority (68%) report that pet tech is more for themselves than for their pet.
- Safety matters, and 1 in 3 users say pet tech keeps their pet safer.
- On average, Americans have spent $215 on pet tech in their lifetime thus far.
Americans choose their pets over personal data security
Nearly three-quarters (74%) of Americans have adopted pet-related technology primarily for their dogs and cats. One alarming incident involves a pet owner whose Furbo camera was hacked, potentially exposing their personal data and privacy. Despite such risks to personal privacy and data security, almost half (46%) of pet owners are willing to take the plunge in order to provide their pets with the benefits of pet tech.
Interestingly, men (49%) are slightly more willing than women (44%) to make this trade-off. Among different generations, Gen Z (53%) is the most willing to risk their personal data, followed by millennials (48%), boomers (42%), and Gen X (39%).
In addition to accepting privacy risks, pet owners display a deep commitment to responsible pet care. Many are willing to spend time learning best practices for pet safety and even cut back on non-essential spending to allocate resources toward their pets. On average, Americans spend $215 on pet tech, with the majority of pet owners (52%) reporting a maximum spend of between $100 and $300 for their pets’ safety and comfort.
But who are the biggest spenders when it comes to technology for their pets? Men, on average, spend about 8% more on pet tech than women. However, as a group, millennials are the biggest spenders, averaging $178 on pet tech, while Gen Z spends the least ($112). These groups are followed by boomers ($126) and Gen X, who averages $150 spent on pet tech.
The tech that pet owners are willing to risk privacy for
As for the specific devices favored by pet owners, pet cameras (22%), automatic feeders (19%), and self-cleaning litter boxes (14%), rank the highest. These devices are not only reported to greatly improve pets’ well-being, but they also contribute positively to pet owners’ relationships with their furry companions.
Younger generations lead the way in adopting such technology. Millennials appear to be the most tech-savvy pet owners, with 79% using pet technology, closely followed by Gen Z at 72%.
In terms of usage frequency, a significant 71% of pet owners utilize pet tech at least a few times a week, and nearly half (45%) use it every day, showcasing the growing reliance on technology to cater to pets’ needs.
The factors that pet owners value the most when incorporating technology into their pet care routines include remote monitoring, convenience, and maintaining a clean environment. These aspects play a crucial role in enhancing pet care and strengthening the pet-owner bond.
Consequently, pet owners prioritize convenience, safety, and the ability to monitor their pets remotely when using technology. This demonstrates their commitment to providing the best possible care for their pets, even at the risk of their own privacy.
58% say pet tech reduces their anxiety
An impressive 84% of pet owners have observed positive effects on their pets’ well-being and their own lives as a result of using pet tech. In fact, 68% of respondents report that pet tech is more for themselves than for their pets, highlighting the role that these gadgets play in easing their concerns.
A significant 58% of users say pet tech reduces their anxiety and gives them greater reassurance regarding their pets’ safety. This statistic underscores the strong influence of pet tech on pet owners’ experiences and the value they place on such technology. Despite the overall perception that pet tech is primarily intended to keep pets safe, actual pet tech users reveal that it mainly offers them peace of mind.
Moreover, the majority of pet owners feel relief when using pet tech because it helps ensure their pets’ safety and well-being when they cannot be physically present. This success in providing peace of mind demonstrates the convenience, control, and monitoring capabilities that pet tech offers. However, it’s important to note that some users (13%) experience feelings of guilt, recognizing that pet tech does not replace the value of in-person interaction and care with pets.
Americans’ concerns about pet tech
Pet technology has become an essential tool for many American pet owners, with 40% turning to pet tech to address specific issues related to their pets. The most common concerns addressed using pet tech include separation anxiety, safety and security, and excessive barking. With devices such as GPS trackers and smart leashes that can improve safety by preventing pets from getting lost, one in three users believes that pet tech makes their pet safer.
Pet tech has proven to be effective for many, as an overwhelming 81% report that it has never been disappointing or ineffective for them. However, for those who have encountered negative experiences, self-cleaning litter boxes, app-controlled toys, and calming devices are the most disappointing products. Despite these concerns, Americans generally have a positive attitude towards pet tech.
There are some factors, however, that contribute to apprehensions about pet tech. For instance, the perceived expense is a common concern. Yet, as previously mentioned, Americans are willing to cut back on non-essential spending to invest in their pets’ well-being. Additionally, a significant number (44%) of pet owners are worried about privacy and data security due to the potential exposure of personal information through devices like pet cameras and GPS trackers. Nevertheless, Americans appear to be willing to accept these risks in exchange for the benefits that pet tech provides to their pets and themselves.
Conclusion
Technology for pets and their owners provides an unparalleled level of convenience and enhances relationships. However, it’s important to remember that with any technology comes the potential for compromised security.
As we increasingly rely on devices, we must remain vigilant about potential privacy and data security risks that may arise from their use. Taking proactive measures to protect personal information and being informed about best practices can help mitigate these risks.
In the event that your data is compromised or lost, it’s essential to have a reliable partner in data recovery. Secure Data Recovery can be your trusted ally, helping you restore your valuable information and, of course, recover those precious pet pictures from corrupt hard drives. By balancing the benefits of pet technology with an awareness of potential risks, pet owners can confidently integrate these devices into their lives and enjoy their furry friends worry-free.
Methodology
We surveyed 1,004 people across the United States on the Prolific online research platform, asking about their habits and experiences with technology for pets. Of our respondents, 50% identified as female, 49% as male, and 1% nonbinary. Respondents’ ages ranged from 18 to 76 years old; 17% Gen Z, 49% millennials, 23% Gen X, and 11% baby boomers.
