High-tech dog toys. Of course, one of the best things about living in the age of technology is all the ways it can keep us entertained, and with dogs it's no different. Some high-tech toys your pup will go nuts for include automated tennis ball launchers, light-up balls for games of nighttime fetch, interactive puzzle toys and treat-dispensing video games.

The Future of Pet Tech

Woman taking a picture of a Jack Russell terrier on green lawnWhile dog technology that simplifies basic pet care is certainly something to get excited about, one of the biggest game changers in pet tech is how it's impacting veterinary care. Phone apps and wearable tech are expected to increase communication between veterinarians and pet parents, help vets monitor their patients in real time, and even allow for virtual exams and long-distance diagnostics, says qSample.com.

Hill's is proud to be an innovator in this area with Hill's SmartCare powered by VetraxTM. Thanks to this device, you'll no longer have to wait for your dog's next vet checkup to learn about the effectiveness of the Hill's® Prescription Diet® dog food your vet placed him on. Whether your dog is on a special diet for weight control, arthritis or other mobility issues or skin and dermatological issues, Hill's SmartCare can not only let you observe his progress in each of these areas in real time, but also allow your vet to keep tabs on his condition so she can adjust his treatment plan accordingly.

The easy-to-use device attaches to your dog's collar and syncs with your smartphone to log such metrics as activity level, walking and running, scratching and head shaking, quality of sleep and how much rest your dog gets. The app has a journal feature that lets you make notes about your dog's condition or progress and set and track improvement goals. You can also use the app to ask your vet questions and send photos or videos of your dog's behavior. All these features make it easy for you and your vet to see from one day to the next how your dog is responding to treatment.

Unlike other pet health monitoring gadgets, Hill's SmartCare is designed specifically to work together with the clinically proven nutrition of Hill's Prescription Diet to improve the health and quality of life for your dog. It's affordable, too. When you purchase $50 or more of qualifying Prescription Diet products you'll receive a rebate on fees for monthly Vetrax monitoring services.

While your dog might not realize how much of an impact technology has on his life and health, for humans, it's an exciting time to be a pet parent. Thanks to continuing advances in dog technology, it's easier than ever to provide quality care for your dog.

Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus

ג'ין מארי באוהאוס היא בעלים לחיות מחמד, בלוגרית בתחום חיות המחמד וסופרת מטולסה, אוקלהומה, שבדרך כלל כותבת תחת פיקוח צמוד של חבורת פרוותיים על ברכיה.