How to stay connected with your pet when you’re not home

Pets are more than just animals: they’re loyal companions that provide us with love, support, and security. For most of us, being away from our pets for an extended period can be challenging. Since many animals feel loneliness when their owners are away, leaving your pet can be hard on them too. Luckily, there are numerous applications and gadgets that make it easy to connect with your pet while you’re gone. Here are some of our favorite ways to nurture the bond between you and your furry friend, even from a distance.

Pet camera

One of the best ways to stay in touch with your pet is via pet camera. Pet cameras and pet camera apps allow pet owners to observe their four-legged friends from afar. They provide a live video stream of your pet when they’re in frame, and some even have two-way audio systems that let you speak to your pet and hear their response. If you don’t want to shell out for a fancy pet camera, try a pet camera app that uses the webcam on your laptop.

Keep an eye on your pet with Snap layouts

Snap layouts for Windows 11 lets you arrange your apps and windows into different configurations on your desktop, making it ideal for people who want to crank out some work while monitoring their pet remotely. If you’re using a pet camera or another pet-related app, open your livestream on one side of your screen while snapping your work tabs and apps to the other side. You can also install pet-themed Windows 11 widgets to access information about your pet without having to open a separate tab.

Use interactive toys and pet feeders

Interactive pet accessories and toys are an excellent way to keep your furry friend entertained and engaged while you're away from home. There’s a wide range of pet toys available on the market, including interactive gadgets that connect to your device and let you play with your pet remotely using lasers and other tools.

Additionally, smart feeders and treat dispensers are innovative pet accessories that dispense food and treats to your pet remotely or on a regular schedule. They give you peace of mind by ensuring that your pet receives proper nutrition while you’re away. Some of them also include built-in cameras so you can monitor your pet’s eating habits and watch them enjoy their treats.

Hire a pet sitter

Whether you hire a professional pet sitter or simply ask your neighbor to watch your pet while you’re away, having someone check in on your animal is a great way to alleviate anxiety around leaving them to go out of town. Professional pet sitters can feed your pet, take them for walks, play with them, and groom them from the comfort of your home. They can also send pictures and video call with you to keep you informed.

Connect with your pet sitter on Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration tool that empowers you to chat, call, and video conference with others. It’s the perfect tool for communicating with your pet sitter and checking in on your pet in real-time.

Implement these tips to stay on top of your pets needs while you’re away and ensure that your return home is seamless and enjoyable. For more ways to do what matters with Windows 11, visit the Windows Learning Center.