Four apps to help you care for your canine.

iPhone apps for dog lovers

There are a surprising number of apps in the App Store that are geared toward taking care of man's best friend. Some of them are functional, and some of them are just plain fun. No bones about it, choosing among the hundreds of apps available can be difficult, so I've narrowed it down to four apps you need to pamper your pooch.

Pet Dossier: This digital organizer helps you keep track of all the important information about your dog, cat or other critter. You can keep track of your pet's medical history, appointments and medications. If you plan to be away, you can email all this information directly to your pet sitter. The app allows the input of multiple pets. Keep information regarding their dietary requirements, likes and dislikes and your own special notes about your furry pal. The app has loads of features and truly is an organizer and planner geared toward the needs of your pet. The app is $1.99 in the App Store, and 25 percent of all sales go to the ASPCA.

Pet First Aid: Your pets count on you to take care of them. Someday, you may need to deal with a pet-related medical emergency. Cuts, choking, CPR and more are covered in this Pet First Aid app. Detailed articles, illustrations and video demonstrate how to give life-saving care to your pet. You can also record your pet's medical information in the app to have on hand for emergencies. Topics covered include bites and stings, burns, sprains and fractures, bleeding, poisoning and a variety of other possible emergencies. Be prepared when it comes to your pets. The app is $3.99 in the App Store.

Dog Park Finder Plus: This handy app contains information for more than 6,000 dog parks and 12,000 dog friendly restaurants in North America. You'll never have to leave your pet behind at the hotel while traveling. Now, with the touch of a screen, you'll know just where Fido will be welcomed. While most folks know where their local dog parks and dog friendly establishments are, this app is most useful for those who travel frequently with their pets. Dog Park Finder Plus is $1.99 in the App Store.

Dog Translator: Do you look at your dog and wonder what's going on in that furry little head? Dog translator is more than happy to reveal your dog's inner most thoughts. Simply press the button to record your dog barking, and wait for the bark to be analyzed. Your dog's message will then be displayed on your screen in human-friendly English. Though the app is just for fun, it's a hoot to see what it comes up with.

Do you have a favorite app dedicated to caring for your dog? Share it with me in the comments.

Photo courtesy of author.