Families in Australia now have a new way to keep their pets safe, thanks to the launch of a GPS tracking device by the family location-tracking app Life360. This innovation allows pet owners to monitor their dogs and cats in real-time, addressing the concerns of those with escape-prone animals. Unlike traditional Bluetooth trackers, which are limited in range, the new Pet GPS utilizes satellite and mobile technology to provide accurate location tracking similar to that of a smartphone.
The Pet GPS device includes features designed for ease of use. When a pet is marked as lost, a light and chime activate to help locate them quickly. Additionally, the device integrates seamlessly with the Life360 app, enabling owners to check their pet’s location at any time and receive alerts if their animal strays beyond the property line. This enhancement expands Life360’s services, which have primarily centered around tracking family members via their smartphones.
Lauren Antonoff, CEO of Life360, expressed enthusiasm about this new development, stating, “Our mission is to keep families safe and connected, and when people think about their families, that often includes pets.” She emphasized that this launch signifies an important evolution for the app, transitioning from a tool focused on families with children to a comprehensive family management solution that caters to all members, including pets.
The introduction of the Pet GPS tracker may also serve a dual purpose for Life360. The company is reportedly looking to convert free users to paid subscriptions or to retain families as their children grow up and leave home. In addition to the pet tracker, Life360 is working on a device designed for elderly family members who may not carry a mobile phone.
Antonoff highlighted the advantages of the Pet GPS over traditional tracking methods, such as microchips and lost pet posters. “The technology empowers owners to locate pets immediately and helps ensure they aren’t captured by strangers,” she explained. With a fully charged battery, the Pet GPS can provide tracking for up to two weeks, giving owners peace of mind during that time.
Reflecting on her personal experiences, Antonoff shared the motivation behind developing the device: “I came to Life360 after losing my dog, and I learned all sorts of things about what works and what doesn’t.” She pointed out that while microchips can aid in recovery, they require action from others who find the pet. “Most people don’t do that, either because it’s too much work or, in the case of my dog, it’s really cute and lovable, and they were just taking good care of him.”
As the Pet GPS begins to reach Australian households, families can look forward to enhanced safety measures for their four-legged members, reinforcing the notion that pets are integral parts of the family.
