[krisvage]

I really agree that you have to like running, but sometimes that new pair of shoes or equipment can be what ignites you. For instance I have been using endomondo with gps tracking and a bluetooth heart rate monitor, and getting so much data on each run, and statistics over time really motivate to keep getting better. And for other people getting their fitbit to 10000 each day may be just the extra bit of motivation they need.

[slipperyp]

Tangent from the pet thing, but ... personally and admittedly, I get quite hoity toity about this and don't think I'm spouting any gospel. My $0.02 and observations around this though are: - No one (ok, one exception) I know who trains heavily relies on a GPS, fitbit, etc. Most of them know what kinds of splits they'd turn out for some workout (mile repeats, 800s or some trail they run a lot). - Conversely, I know a lot of people who use a GPS or fitbit who are not in shape and seem to want to get in shape but aren't making noticeable progress over months (based on their satisfaction or what I'd call visible results) - But yeah, I also know a lot of people who exercise casually and incorporate these into their days.

I just see a lot more people who these don't do anything for than those that they do, and I think the device has little-to-nothing to do with the outcome. A MUCH better investment would be to join a group (many are free, many cost less than the devices).

Back to the pet thing, I think you have to want to care for the pet and pay attention to its behavior and needs. This looks like a neat / fine device, but I'd probably sooner make one of the DIY "Cooper the Photographer Cat" cameras (which incidentally run half the cost of the whistle: http://www.mr-lee-catcam.de/pe_cc_o1_en.htm)