Anyone who has a pet will tell you their pets are as much a part of their family as their kids. And if you don’t have any kids, you know that your pets are your kids. So it only makes sense that when shopping for a security system, one of the things you are probably looking for is the best home security systems for pet owners. Why? Because they’re family!
1. SimpliSafe – Best Overall Pet Friendly System (Editors Choice)
SimpliSafe offers pet-friendly security systems that have sensors with a higher weight range than most other pet-friendly security systems. SimpliSafe’s motion sensors are good up to about 50 pounds, whereas other pet-friendly security system sensors are only good for up to about 30-40 pounds. Additionally, they come with some popular features that make them one of the best home security systems for pet owners and they’re an overall great home security system as well.
Pros
- Motion Sensor Identification (30-50 pounds)
- Portable
- Low Monthly Rates
- Easy DIY Wireless Installation
- No Long-Term Contracts
- Indoor Video Monitoring
- Fire/Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Monitoring
- Cellular Alerts
- Alarm Works Without Monitoring
- 60-Day Equipment Trial
- Award-Winning Monitoring Services
- Long-Lasting Battery Backup
Cons
- No Home Automation
- Up-Front Equipment Expense
- Proprietary Equipment
If you don’t like signing long-term contracts, you will love SimpliSafe because they don’t have a contract requirement. In fact, they give you the option of a self-monitoring plan free of charge or a professionally monitored plan for a minimal monthly fee. Additionally, their equipment is very easy to install and works whether you opt for a monitoring plan or not. In fact, all you have to do once you receive your system is plug in the base station, place your sensors in the desired areas, then adjust the settings with your computer. That’s it! The SimpliSafe website also has a five-minute setup video you can watch as well.
The SimpliSafe equipment packages range from approximately $229-$499 and come with a three-year warranty. They are also portable, very user-friendly, and easy to install. Additionally, SimpliSafe gives you 60 days to try everything out and if for any reason you aren’t satisfied, you can return the equipment and receive a full refund for your purchase.
2. Frontpoint – Best DIY Install
Frontpoint has pet-sensitive motion detectors for pets up to 40 pounds. Their pet-friendly alarm systems also come with 24/7 environmental sensors for fire/smoke, flood, and carbon monoxide that will send an alert to the monitoring station if such activity is detected. Frontpoint also offers video monitoring, home automation, and more. So you can rest a little easier when you leave your pets at home.
Pros
- Competitive Pricing
- Exceptional Customer Service
- Video Monitoring
- Home Automation
- Environmental Disaster Protection
- Motion Sensor Identification (up to 40 pounds)
- DIY Wireless Installation
- Cellular Alerts (no landline required)
- Optional Indoor and Outdoor Cameras
- Equipment Is Not Proprietary
- 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Cons
- Might Not Be An Option for Homes with Pets of More Than 40 Pounds
- Long-Term Contract Required
- Credit Check Could Raise Prices
- No Landline Option Available
Frontpoint is often rated as one of the best security companies for emergency monitoring; however, they might not be an option for those with pets over 40 pounds. However, for households with smaller pets, they have generous equipment packages, competitive prices, and their equipment is extremely easy to set up. Additionally, their customer service is exceptional and better than most.
Frontpoint has three equipment packages that range from $199-$350. They also offer three monitoring plans with either a one- or three-year contract which ranges from $34-$50 per month. However, to get the equipment package pricing, you have to sign a three-year agreement. You can also customize a package if you prefer. The Frontpoint equipment is DIY and can be set up in about 30 minutes, so there’s no need for professional installation.
3. Vivint – Best Home Automation Features
Vivint offers a wide variety of pet-friendly home security equipment options such as motion sensing cameras you can use to monitor your pets and home automation equipment you can use to lock and unlock your doors for pet sitters. They also offer some advanced pet-friendly options aside from video monitoring such as fire/smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring.
Pros
- Motion Sensor Identification
- Indoor and Outdoor Cameras
- Video Monitoring
- Sleek Contemporary Equipment
- Environmental Disaster Protection
- Same-Day Installation
- Lifetime Warranty
- Cellular and/or Landline Connections
- Remote Access
- Home Automation
- Doorbell Camera with Two-Way Voice
Cons
- Professional Installation Required
- Long-Term Contract Required
- Short Trial Period
- Above-Average Monthly Cost
Vivint is a high-end home protection company with a focus on home automation. The Vivint equipment is 100% wireless and every package comes with professional installation. That means a technician will connect your system to a powerful cellular network or landline for emergency coverage and monitoring
Vivint has three equipment packages and two monitoring plans that require either a four- or five-year contract. Additionally, each plan comes with home security and environmental protections such as fire and carbon monoxide. And the top two tier plans support video security and home automation with voice commands for hands-free control.
There is one thing that could limit potential Vivint customers though as Vivint requires a minimum credit score of 600 if you want their services. However, if you don’t qualify, you can opt for their monitoring-only contract. Another thing to keep in mind is that Vivint is one of the few alarm companies where you might be able to negotiate prices. Especially if you have a contract with another home security company. Or, if you are a new Vivint customer, you might be able to negotiate waivers for any number of things. So go ahead and give it a try. What do you have to lose?
4. Protect America – Most Affordable Pet Friendly System
Protect America offers animal-proof motion sensors for pets up to 40 pounds. However, if you have larger pets, the company suggests you opt for its glass break sensors instead. This will help eliminate the possibility of receiving false alarms triggered by your pets. They also offer video monitoring, fire/smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring and a wide variety of home automation features.
Pros
- Motion Sensor Identification (up to 40 pounds)
- Low Price Guarantee
- DIY Wireless Equipment
- Cellular, Wi-Fi, or Landline Monitoring
- Indoor Video Cameras
- Environmental Disaster Protection
- Home Automation
- Smartphone Controls
- Equipment Replacement (as needed) Policy
- 14-Day Trial Offer
Cons
- Three-Year Contract Required
- More Expensive Than Most Average Cellular Monitoring Prices
- Starter Fees
- No Outdoor Video Cameras
- Customers Only Lease Equipment (they don’t own it)
Protect America is another one of the best home security systems for pet owners. Mainly because of the motion sensors, indoor camera options, and home automation features. All Protect America equipment is wireless and they offer a price match guarantee so you know you are getting the best deal possible. However, they do have an automatic renewal policy; therefore, you have to give them a 60-day notice of cancellation at the end of your existing contract or it will be automatically renewed.
Protect America security offers a 14-day trial, their equipment fee is $99 for the basic set up, and they will repair or replace faulty equipment as needed. Please note, you can cancel your Protect America contract within the first 30-days, but they will charge you a $19.95 account activation fee if you do so. Also, you don’t own the equipment, so you will have to return that equipment when you cancel your monitoring plan.
Protect America has five available security equipment packages which range from $19.99 to $42.99 per month. And, their equipment can be installed in less than an hour and without the need for special tools.
5. Petcube – Best Pet Interaction
If you are a pet owner, you are going the love the Petcube concepts. They offer an interactive Wi-Fi pet camera system that enables you to monitor, play, talk, train, and reward your pet (with dispensable treats) remotely. They have two different types of cameras and each has a different function.
Pros
- Wireless
- DIY Installation
- Remote Control Capabilities
- Wi-Fi and 3G Cellular Alerts
- Optional Video History Storage
- Laser Autoplay Mode Now Included (new feature)
Cons
- Pet Monitoring Only (no home security option available)
- Extended Video Storage Options Are a Bit Pricey
- Wi-Fi Setup Can Be Problematic at Times
The two Petcube options are the Petcube Bites which allows you to see and talk to your pet, as well as remotely fling them treats that are dispensed from the camera. They also have a Petcube Play, their bestselling pet cam, that comes equipped with a laser toy so you can remotely interact and play with your pet in 1080p HD. Additionally, they also have Pet Camera Packs which are multiple pet cams and a variety of accessories. In addition to that, they have monthly plans ($4.99-$24.99 per month) available that give you the option of storing your video history along with a multitude of other valuable apps, subscriptions, offers, and discounted shopping options at any one of their preferred providers.
The Petcube cameras are probably the most innovative interactive video camera options out there for pet owners and one that is a “must have” for most of them.
Features of Pet Friendly Home Security Systems
Home security systems that are ideal for pet owners have all or some of the following features:
Wireless or Wired
Wireless pet-friendly home security systems don't require any hardwiring throughout your home to work. They are simply placed on a surface or adhesive is used to install each piece appropriately. A wired system has wires that will require them to be incorporated into your existing electrical system for them to work and usually require a professional for installation unless you are handy and familiar with electrical protocols.
Expandable
An expandable security system is just that—expandable. That means you purchase a basic security system or kit, then you can add-on to that system as your wants and needs change. These types of systems will enable you to buy a basic security/home automation system then gradually add-on to it as needed. With an expandable security system, you can also build-out your equipment into an entire home security and home automation ecosystem.
Remote Viewing
With remote viewing, you can tap the app and monitor what's going on at your house. Remote viewing will enable you to check-in on your pets to see what they're doing or to make sure they are OK. And in some cases, such as is the case with the PetCube we mentioned above, you can remotely interact with your pet as well. Many of these security systems also have a cloud storage feature for your video recordings.
Entryway Sensors
Entryway sensors are crash and smash sensors that are placed on your windows and doors. These will detect if any given window or door is opened or smashed. They will then send you and/or the proper authorities an emergency alert.
Motion Detectors
Motion detectors work by detecting motion, unlike entryway sensors. A motion detector will send an alert based on motion in your home. Sometimes these are a problem for pet owners; therefore, if you are a pet owner, you will probably want to consider a pet-friendly security system before making a purchase.
24/7 Monitoring
When you install a security system, a monitoring center will monitor your system for activity 24/7, if you pay a monthly monitoring fee. Some security systems are self-monitoring; therefore, if you want your security system monitored 24/7, you might consider looking for one that offers that service because many of them don't.
Mobile Control
Mobile controls usually require a designated app to use certain functionalities of your system. Mobile options allow you to access, monitor, and control your system remotely. These can be used to view your security camera in real-time, receive activity alerts, arm and disarm your system, and more.
Control Panel
The control panel for any given alarm system is the central control point that is the base for all the different equipment and their functions. Many control panels also include sirens, panic buttons, and two-way talk features that allow you to communicate with a monitoring center if the need arises.
Night Vision
Most indoor and outdoor security systems come with night vision which allows you to see things at night or in areas where it's dark. Night vision security cameras use infrared LED bulbs which, when it gets dark, produce infrared light that is invisible to the naked eye.
