WHAT IT IS:
iPet Companion is the world’s first interactive, web-based pet toy. With its unique technology, the iPet Companion system allows online users to play with shelter animals in realtime via the internet—from anywhere in the world! (For more detailed info about online pet play, check our "how it works" page on this site.) WHY WE DO IT:
The mission behind iPet Companion is that with our p
roduct, we want to do what we can to help end pet homelessness. We play our part in this effort by using our technology to give a “face” to shelter pets: to support positive associations with humane societies and shelters, and to bring awareness and visibility to the many wonderful animals up for adoption. We do what we do because it benefits the animals, the organizations who help them, and the online viewers who love the interaction. The iPet Companion collaboration is truly a win-win proposition for everyone involved. THE IPET COMPANION STORY:
iPet Companion is a product of Reach-In technology, the creator of online applications that allow users to visually and robotically interact over the internet in real time. The iPet Companion product was born when one of Reach-In’s engineers was testing equipment at home, and found that he was being distracted by his cats. As he was testing the robotically-controlled equipment, his cats were thrilled at the opportunity to play with the moving parts. The idea for a Reach-In pet toy was born! We reached out to our local humane society, and asked if they would like to pilot a new web-based realtime cat toy for us. They jumped at the chance. We installed our system of toys and online portal onsite at Idaho Humane, and the project was a huge hit! The response to iPet Companion has been positive, passionate, and worldwide. Once we saw the difference our new toy was making, we never turned back. While Reach-in is a business, we don't view the iPet Companion system as a money-maker; we offer it to shelters at or below our cost, because we know it is making a unique and positive difference in the lives of animals. We hope you will enjoy the wonderful combination of merriment and meaning that iPet Companion offers. Yes, with iPet you can have fun and make a difference at the same time! INTERACT AND LEARN MORE:
The best way to get a feel for iPet Companion is to visit our live play sites to try it for yourself. Link to our portal of live play sites via the interactive map on our homepage, or link to individual shelter sites directly from our live play page. Let us know what you think, or ask us a question, by writing us at [email protected].
