Our pets are part of our lives. The Humane Society cites an American Pet Products Association survey that shows 44 percent of U.S. households own at least one dog, and 35 percent own at least one cat. We would do anything to keep our pets safe, but how many people do you know that have pet insurance? Are your own animals covered under any plans? Nuzzle, a pet insurance company, has teamed up with design studio Ammunition to raise awareness of animal coverage through their new Nuzzle collar. This GPS pet collar not only keeps track of our best friends, but also monitors their health and offers optional pet insurance through the accompanying app.
The APPA reports that just 3 percent of dogs and 1 percent of cats are insured. Average annual premiums are $460 for dogs and $290 for cats, according to a 2014 study by the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHA). If the relatively low cost of pet insurance isn’t to blame for lack of coverage, then what is?
“Very few pet owners in the United States are aware that pet insurance is even available, let alone the benefits it can provide,” said Anthony Dubbaneh, CEO of Nuzzle.
The Nuzzle is water resistant and allows you to set up a geo-fence perimeter around your house. If your pet steps out of bounds, the information will be relayed to your phone. Status updates include resting, playing, and active states. Body temperature and collision detection let you know if something has gone wrong. When taking your pet on a walk, you can track the distance, pace, time, and route. The tracker has nationwide coverage, so if Spot and the kitty next door embark on an incredible journey, you’ll find them.
The Nuzzle’s removable battery lasts for five days between charges. Two batteries are included in the package. For owners and pets who are partial to their own collars, the tracker itself can be attached using the included attachment piece.
Perhaps the most unique feature of the Nuzzle is the ability to sign up for pet insurance on the spot. The included app offers free quotes from leading pet insurers. You can also track your pet’s medical history, such as vaccinations and examinations.
Nuzzle works on iOS and Android devices and currently retails for $150, if you sign up early on the company’s Indiegogo page. There is no monthly fee for the collar itself, unless you sign up for pet insurance through the app. Shipping is expected to begin in March 2016.
