Latest news with #PetSafe
CNET
21-05-2025
- Business
- CNET
Get Safe: PetSafe and SimpliSafe Offer Pet and Home Memorial Day Sales
If you're looking to improve home security and safety for Memorial Day, two notable deals land this week from pet tech and home security companies PetSafe and SimpliSafe. First, shop the PetSafe brand on their own website and through May 26, buyers will receive a $20 discount on any purchase over $125. The discount will be automatically applied with no code or signup necessary. PetSafe products include a variety of pet health devices including digital fence collars, smart feeding stations, ball launcher machines, tactical crates and plenty more, so hitting that target shouldn't be difficult for pet owners. Ball launchers and other tricks can help pets get rid of pent-up energy. PetSafe Next, you can stop by the home security system company SimpliSafe, which is offering new buyers a 60% discount and a SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera (Series 2) through May 29. SimpliSafe security kits are very DIY-friendly (with an 8.5/10 CNET review score), with kits starting around $112 to $164 with this deal applied. A similar deal is slated for Father's Day through the end of June. The discount works for any SimpliSafe system, but there is a catch: You'll need to include a professional monitoring plan which starts around $32 per month. The free addition of the SimpliSafe outdoor camera allows for another potential layer of security, too: With a Live Guard plan ($50+ a month), the camera can use AI detection to sort normal activity from suspicious behavior while ignoring the faces of friends and family, only calling in an agent when it looks like there's a problem.
Business Insider
01-05-2025
- General
- Business Insider
I tested an affordable self-cleaning litter box, and it gets the job done without much fuss
Over the past few years, our reporters have tested 20 automatic litter boxes in search of the best ones. No model is perfect, and only four boxes have earned our recommendation. We hold the best automatic litter boxes to high standards because a faulty safety mechanism can injure cats and, in general, the noise, smaller, cave-like interiors, and high entry points common among these machines can create stress for cats. But when an automatic litter box works well, it saves you time, is comfortable for cats to use, and keeps the litter box cleaner, which makes everyone happier. One of the most affordable options is the PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self-Cleaning Litter Box, and it's the one we recommend for budget-conscious cat owners. While smart self-cleaning litter boxes can cost as much as $700, the ScoopFree offers reliable performance with some caveats for around $160. I tested the ScoopFree with my two cats, carefully evaluating its safety features, ease of use, and overall effectiveness in keeping their litter box tidy. How it works The ScoopFree litter box is available in three designs: open, covered with a front entry, and a top-entry design. The open design caught our attention because it aligns with what veterinarians recommend in the best cat litter boxes. Open litter boxes don't trap odors inside, and they provide cats with a full view of their surroundings, helping them feel more secure. Veterinarians say a litter box should also be spacious enough for your cat to step inside, turn around comfortably without touching the sides of the box, and dig without feeling cramped. The ScoopFree offers an interior measuring 15.5 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 6 inches high — roughly the length of an adult cat from nose to tail — and holds about an inch of litter. While the box is on the smaller side and a minimum of 2 inches of litter is ideal, my 11-pound cats were still able to use it without issue, with enough room to turn around and dig. However, larger cats might feel cramped, and enthusiastic diggers could struggle to find a spot to go and cover their waste. The rim of the ScoopFree litter box has two sensors that detect when a cat enters and leaves. Once your cat exits, a 20-minute countdown begins. So long as they, or another cat, don't reenter and reset the timer — a built-in safety feature — a metal rake sweeps across the box, collecting solid waste and depositing it into a covered waste tray, which is an area of the main litter box tray that has a snap-on cover. It conceals the waste from view but doesn't fully lock in odors. A built-in counter tracks your cat's visits. This litter box only works with PetSafe's non-clumping crystal litter, which absorbs liquids but doesn't remove them, so urine remains in the box until the litter is changed. Setup took less than 10 minutes. Just slide the disposable litter tray into the base, place the rim on top, and plug it into a standard wall outlet. There are no apps to sync or settings to customize Our review of the PetSafe ScoopFree litter box Atlas and Lyra were immediately drawn to the ScoopFree litter box — not just to use it, but to curiously watch the rake sweep through the crystal litter after each visit. I often found Atlas with her front paws resting on the rim, waiting for the cleanup to begin. Their fascination with the automated cycle, while really cute, skewed the built-in counter's readings. Some days, they were in and out of the box just to check it out, rather than actually using it. Still, I was glad the automated cleanup was a hit with them, rather than intimidating, and I equally appreciated the break from daily scooping. While the sound of the rake wasn't disruptive in our home, even with the box placed in our bedroom, some reviewers said it initially startled their cats. Using a decibel meter on my phone, I measured the ScoopFree's cleaning cycle at about 44.7 decibels, which is roughly as loud as a refrigerator hum. PetSafe recommends replacing the litter tray every 10 to 15 days in two-cat households, but how long it lasts depends on your cats' habits. In my experience, there was a slight odor after about five days to a week, though in homes with heavier litter box use, fewer boxes, or cats with digestive issues, you could notice it sooner. PetSafe's proprietary crystal litter is somewhat absorbent. It soaks up a majority of urine and dehydrates solid waste, which reduces odors and makes raking up solids tidier. Atlas and Lyra mostly used the box for peeing, and sometimes in the same spot. Because the rake only scrapes solids into the waste compartment and doesn't remove liquid, the wet litter just sits in the tray, sometimes getting dragged around a bit. By day 10, some areas of the litter were noticeably yellowed and oversaturated. Stirring the litter helped distribute moisture and extend its use, but even then, waiting the full 15 days might be a stretch. I also tried scooping out the saturated crystals, but since they're non-clumping, it was difficult to remove them completely without making a mess or leaving some behind. I didn't notice any strong odors when I was within a couple of feet of the box, though an odor was noticeable when I was close enough to stir or maintain the litter. Still, cats have a much more sensitive sense of smell than we do, so even if I didn't notice it, my cats likely did. You can avoid this by scooping out the saturated crystals and topping off the box with fresh litter. Besides defeating the purpose of a self-cleaning litter box, I found most of the non-clumping crystals slipped through the grates of my scoop. When it was time to change the litter, I lifted off the rim and slid out the disposable litter tray, swapping it for a fresh tray pre-filled with PetSafe's crystal litter. The process was quick, and I liked not having to scrub the box with soap and water each time. However, it did create extra waste. For a more sustainable option, you can purchase a plastic reusable tray and bags of crystal litter, but our experts recommend deep cleaning it with mild soap and water each time you toss the old litter and refill it with fresh. Cons to consider While the ScoopFree does a good job at removing solids and a pretty good job at absorbing liquids, it still leaves some urine-soaked litter behind, meaning your cat has to step on, dig through, and smell soiled litter every time they use the box. Stirring the crystals between cleanings can help distribute moisture and control odors, but even then, some cats may refuse to use a litter box that isn't clean. Other automatic litter boxes, such as the Litter-Robot 4, use clumping litter to remove solid and liquid waste after each use. Atlas and Lyra didn't seem to mind that the litter box always had some moisture in it, but this may not be true for every cat. Another downside is the use of crystal litter. Our experts say the best cat litters are soft, sand-like, and clumping, and some cats may refuse to use anything else. While my cats had no problem stepping in and digging through the crystals, my sore feet disagreed. The crystals tracked surprisingly far — sometimes as much as 20 feet from the box. They felt uncomfortable to step on, and they're likely even harsher on sensitive cat paws, especially for cats with arthritis and declawed cats prone to paw sensitivity. Because of this, I recommend pairing the ScoopFree with a litter mat. The best cat litter mats catch loose litter as your cat exits their box. My cats are healthy adults without mobility issues, so they had no trouble climbing in and out of the box. However, its 6-inch high sides might not be ideal for senior cats or those with mobility limitations. Kittens could also struggle to climb in, and the self-cleaning mode shouldn't be used for cats under 6 months old. In noise tests, the PetSafe ScoopFree was no louder than other top-performing models. However, if your cat is particularly sound-sensitive, it might be worth reconsidering automatic litter boxes. The bottom line In a market saturated with automatic litter boxes that are very costly or worse, unsafe, the PetSafe ScoopFree self-cleaning litter box strikes a balance between affordability and safety. While it doesn't come with all the fancy features of more expensive smart litter boxes, it delivers the basics: removes solid waste, absorbs most liquids, and frees you from daily scooping. However, it does have its trade-offs that you should consider before making a purchase. If you're unsure whether this litter box is the right choice for you and your cat, your veterinarian can provide personalized guidance.
Yahoo
18-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Developer opens 96 affordable housing units in Knoxville, plans to open more this year
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Housing developer DGA Residential has opened a new affordable housing community with 96 units in Knoxville and they are planning to open at least two more communities with more than 200 units combined later this year. The ribbon was cut at Riverside at Holston Wednesday morning. The new housing community has 48 two-bedroom and 48 three-bedroom units, and is located across the street from Holston River Park off of Holston Hill Road Man indicted after camera found in women's restroom at a Farragut park Construction began in December 2023, and the finishing touches are expected to be complete in May 2025. One of the buildings is complete with 20 units already occupied, and it is expected 48 more units will be occupied in the next 36. The remaining units are expected to be full by mid-June. The new development includes a clubhouse, a playground, a business center, fitness center, and on-site management. Additionally, it also offers residents a protected view of Holston River Park, which has a playground, picnic tables, a canoe launch, paved trails, two fishing piers and a two-acre PetSafe dog park. 'The proximity to downtown as well and everything going on in downtown and Old City, South Knoxville, there's just so much investment going on and opportunity in this part of town. So we're right here, kind of central to all that,' said Craig Cobb, DGA Residential's vice president of affordable housing. 'The demand here in town is off the charts, so 96 units is great. We're really proud of it, but there needs to be a lot more because if we had 1000 units today, we could probably fill 1000 units. So it's a huge need and we're glad to help' Cobb said rent for the two-bedroom units is $1,200. For the three-bedroom units, rent is set at $1,400. As it is an affordable housing community, it is also important to note that applicants can only make up to 80% of the Area Median Income, which is about $64,000 for a family of two and up to $86,000 for a family of five in Knoxville. The Riverside at Holston also accepts tenants with vouchers, such as Project-Based Vouchers and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. Knox County Schools to vote on price increase for meals The new affordable housing community was made possible through a $750,000 investment by the City of Knoxville through its Affordable Rental Development Fund. Cobb added that DGA Residential also got some of its financing through Tennessee Housing Development Agency and HUD finances. Cobb also shared that DGA Residential has multiple other housing communities under development, including the 184-unit Grosvenor Square community that will be opening off of Merchants Drive in August, and a 47-unit Bluegrass Landing community that will be next to Blue Grass Elementary School in June. The second, he said, would be going online in June. Additionally, the development company is also planning to break ground on at least two more housing communities later this year, with one in Hardin Valley and the other off of 5th Avenue. Cumulatively, those two communities will also have more than 200 units. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Globe and Mail
09-04-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Pet Tech Industry Report 2024-2030: Global Market Projected to Reach $17.25 Billion in the Next 6 Years – Exclusive Research Insights by Arizton
"Pet Tech Market Research Report by Arizton" According to Arizton's latest research report, pet tech market is growing at a CAGR of 14.56% during 2024-2030. Report Scope: Market Size (2030): $17.25 Billion Market Size (2024): $7.63 Billion CAGR (2024-2030): 14.56% Historic Year: 2021-2023 Base Year: 2024 Forecast Year: 2025-2030 Market Segmentation: Product, Technology, Distribution Channel, and Geography Geographical Analysis: North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa The pet tech industry is expected to continue its double-digit growth over the next decade, with increasing investments in AI-powered health diagnostics and connected pet ecosystems. As consumer demand for convenience and personalized solutions grows, the market will see further consolidation through mergers, acquisitions, and strategic collaborations. Companies focusing on innovation, data security, and integration within the pet care ecosystem will gain a competitive edge in this rapidly evolving market. Leading players like Whistle & FitBark, Tractive, and Garmin dominate the pet wearable segment, offering GPS trackers and health-monitoring devices, while Petcube and Furbo are prominent in pet monitoring with interactive cameras. Additionally, smart solutions for feeding and waste management, such as Litter-Robot, Sure Petcare, and PetSafe, are rapidly growing in popularity. Innovation plays a critical role in this market, with AI, IoT, and machine learning being integrated into products to enhance tracking, health diagnostics, and pet behavior insights. The integration of 5G and IoT connectivity is expected to accelerate advancements, enabling seamless real-time tracking and interaction. Sustainability is also a focus, with eco-friendly products like automated litter boxes and AI-powered feeders evolving with self-cleaning and monitoring features. North America and Europe currently lead the market, driven by high pet ownership rates and strong consumer demand for smart pet products, while Asia-Pacific, particularly China, Japan, and South Korea, is seeing rapid growth. Latin America and the Middle East are emerging markets, where affordability remains a challenge, but rising pet adoption is fueling the market demand. Monitoring Devices to Contribute Largest Share in the Pet Tech Market Pet owners often worry about the well-being of their pets when they are away from home, but recent technological advancements have introduced innovative solutions to provide reassurance. Pet monitoring systems, including specialized cameras and security devices, enable real-time tracking of pets' health, behavior, and safety. These devices offer valuable insights that ensure pets remain safe and well-cared for, reducing owners' anxieties. Pet cameras, such as those offered by Furbo, WOPET, Petcube, and Enabot, are designed to allow remote monitoring and interaction with pets. These cameras typically feature live video streaming, two-way audio, treat dispensers, and built-in games to keep pets engaged. Some models also offer additional features like pet activity alerts and remote interactions, which help reduce pet loneliness and improve their well-being while owners are away. In 2024, new models like the Xiaomi 360 Home Security Camera and Honor Xiaopai Smart Camera Pro have been introduced, with advanced features such as AI detection, 360-degree coverage, night vision, and cloud storage integration. These cameras are designed not only for pet monitoring but also for home security, making them valuable tools for both pet owners and small businesses like pet daycare centers and grooming salons. Overall, the growing popularity of smart pet cameras reflects the increasing demand for pet safety and interaction, providing peace of mind to owners and ensuring their pets' safety and engagement when they are not around. Global Pet Tech Market Latest News & Developments In March 2025, Enabot launched the EBO Air 2, a smart home robot that enhances security and pet interaction with a 2K Ultra HD camera, 360° mobility, night vision, and AI-powered features. Offering motion detection, two-way talk, and customizable expressions, it keeps homes monitored and pets entertained. The EBO Air 2 strengthens Enabot's position in the growing pet tech market, appealing to security-conscious homeowners and pet owners seeking interactive, AI-driven solutions. Its innovation boosts brand recognition and market competitiveness. In January 2025, Satellai partnered with Qualcomm to revolutionize pet tracking with the Satellai Tracker, integrating Qualcomm's advanced chipset technology. This collaboration enhances Satellai's market position by offering cutting-edge, reliable tracking, even in no-signal areas, boosting pet safety and customer trust. In January 2025Tractive named Sandrine Arcizet as its Brand Ambassador for France, leveraging her influence to promote its GPS and health trackers. The new DOG 6 tracker introduces Bark Monitoring, with future heart and respiratory rate tracking for enhanced pet safety. This partnership boosts Tractive's visibility, educating pet owners and reinforcing its market leadership in data-driven pet tech. The Role of Online Distribution in the Growth of the Pet Tech Industry The pet tech industry has experienced substantial growth, fueled by the rising demand for smart pet products, health monitoring devices, and automated pet care solutions. Online distribution channels have played a pivotal role in this expansion, allowing pet tech companies to reach a global audience with ease. E-commerce platforms, direct-to-consumer (DTC) websites, online marketplaces, subscription services, and digital partnerships with veterinary networks and pet retailers are essential tools for enhancing accessibility, customer engagement, and sales. Online retailers such as Amazon, Chewy, and Petco offer extensive selections of pet products, making it easier for consumers to find and purchase smart pet solutions. These platforms utilize search algorithms, product reviews, and targeted advertising to help brands connect with pet owners. Specialized pet-focused marketplaces like Petco and PetSmart's online stores further support niche pet care innovations. Many pet tech brands adopt a DTC approach through their websites, allowing full control over pricing, branding, and customer relationships. This model facilitates the collection of first-party data to create personalized marketing campaigns and loyalty programs. Additionally, subscription services for consumables like smart pet feeders and GPS tracker services generate recurring revenue and foster long-term customer loyalty. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, have become crucial distribution channels for pet tech brands. Influencer partnerships, user-generated content, and features like direct shopping on these platforms enable brands to reach target demographics efficiently, improving brand awareness and customer acquisition. Moreover, partnerships with veterinary clinics, online pet pharmacies, and pet health platforms help integrate pet tech products into wellness programs, enhancing their credibility. Bundling smart pet devices with insurance plans or veterinary services via digital channels further boosts customer adoption and trust, cementing the role of online distribution in the pet tech industry's continued growth. Pet Tech Market Key Company Profiles Garmin Ltd Mars, Incorporated Pawbo Petcube Actijoy Aimicat Casa Leo Cheerble Dogtra E-Collar Technologies, Inc. ELECOM CO., LTD. Enabot Felcana Furbo iKuddle Invoxia Kippy MiniFinder Moggie PerpetualWell PET MARVEL Petbiz PETBLE PETKIT Petlibro, Inc PetPace PetSafe Brands PupPod SATELLAI Sure Petcare Tractive Wayzn WOPET Xiaomi Zhejiang Dingyuan Pet Products Co., Ltd. Market Segmentation Product Monitoring Devices Tracking Devices Entertainment Devices Others Technology RFID GPS Sensors Distribution Channel Offline Online Geography North America The U.S. Canada Europe The U.K. France Germany Italy Spain Netherlands Poland Belgium APAC China Japan India Philippines South Korea Australia Middle East & Africa UAE Saudi Arabia South Africa Latin America Brazil Mexico Argentina The Arizton Advisory & Intelligence market research report provides valuable market insights for industry stakeholders, investors, researchers, consultants, and business strategists aiming to gain a thorough understanding of the pet tech market. Request for Free Sample to get a glance of the report now: What Key Findings Will Our Research Analysis Reveal? How big is the global pet tech market? What is the growth rate of the global pet tech market? Who are the key players in the global pet tech market? What are the significant trends in the pet tech market? Which region dominates the global pet tech market share? Global Pet Food Market - Focused Insights 2025-2030 U.S. Pet Grooming and Boarding Market - Focused Insights 2024-2029 Why Arizton? 100% Customer Satisfaction 24x7 availability – we are always there when you need us 200+ Fortune 500 Companies trust Arizton's report 80% of our reports are exclusive and first in the industry 100% more data and analysis 1500+ reports published till date Post-Purchase Benefit 1hr of free analyst discussion 10% off on customization About Us: Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovative and quality-driven firm that offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients worldwide. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services. We offer comprehensive market research reports on consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals, materials, I.T. and media, logistics, and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts. Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.
