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There’s no doubt about it. The Internet of Things (IoT) is changing everything. How we work. How we communicate. Even how we play. Millions and millions of people around the world are benefiting.

But what about our family pets?

  • Best estimates put the pet dog population at more than 525 million
  • Brazil has the highest number of small dogs per capita in the world
  • Saudi Arabia has the world’s highest share of big dogs
  • Pet ownership in the U.S. has more than tripled since the 1970s
  • More than 35 percent of Americans give their dogs birthday presents

This is an incredible untapped market—and a great opportunity for Cisco disruption. That’s why our Emerging Technologies and Innovation team has been aggressively researching canine IoT solutions over the past 18 months.

Because of this focused work, I’m excited to share that we’ve developed a highly transformative IoT solution. We call it Cisco Pet Unified Protection (C-PUP). Our amazing team of engineers have designed it to keep our precious pets safe and happy as they travel the open road with us. The brand new C-PUP solution will be available globally beginning June 2018—just in time for summer road trips.

C-PUP: A Barking Good Time

So what is C-PUP and why is it the best gift you can give your dog?

C-PUP looks similar to a pet seat for your car, however, it takes the concept to an entirely new level. Throughout the fabric of the seat, C-PUP features an array of sensors linked to your car’s Wi-Fi to make the pet passenger experience safe, comfortable, and unlike anything they’ve ever experienced before.

Your dog gets an inkling to lean his head out the window? The sensors near his face detect building saliva that instructs the seat to lift and move toward the window. It also triggers the window to open. Dog too warm? Too cold? Simple. A built-in sensor communicates with your heating and cooling system to dial settings to your pet’s exacting standards.

A doggie airbag is a given, of course. Plus, a sensor-based feeding and watering system. Just like you, your dog will be able to enjoy special treats on long road trips. What we’re especially proud of are the mood sensors that can adjust the music playlist from “How Much is That Doggie in the Window” to “Who Let the Dogs Out?”

C-PUP is all about the dogs. Their well-being. Their pleasure. And we benefit, too. After all, a happy dog never growls, nips, or bites, making your trip pure pleasure.

And it’s been my pleasure to have some fun leading up to the April Fools’ holiday!