In recent years, as record-breaking heat continues, interest in heatstroke prevention measures for outings with pets is increasing.
Against this backdrop, AIRBUGGY PET, a pet stroller brand operated by GMP International Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Keita Haraguchi), conducted a survey on 'Actual Conditions of Outings with Pets and Heat Countermeasures' targeting 558 pet stroller users.
The survey results revealed that while pet strollers have become established as tools that expand the range of activities with pets, such as events, restaurants, and travel, there is a growing need for technologies that enhance pet comfort, such as 'cooling fans' and 'automatic temperature control functions.'
In recent years, the culture of going out with pets has expanded, with an increasing number of places where pets are welcome, such as cafes, commercial facilities, public transportation, and hotels. While an environment where outings can be enjoyed regardless of the season is being developed, prolonged heatwaves have made heat countermeasures during outings a major challenge for pet owners.
The survey also found that while many users already utilize cooling packs and fans, they feel the 'difficulty of temperature control' and the 'limits of heat countermeasures.'
To meet these needs, AIRBUGGY PET will launch the 'SMART FAN +AI,' a smart air conditioning device exclusively for pet strollers that integrates a fan, cooling mist, and ozone deodorization into a single unit, equipped with AI functions for detecting and automatically controlling temperature and humidity, from mid-June 2026.
*As of June 2026. According to company research.
Pet Strollers Create Outing Opportunities: 81.5% Say 'Events,' 80.3% Say 'Increased Restaurant Use'
When asked about 'places or activities they have increased due to having a pet stroller,' the results were:
- Events: 81.5% - Pet-friendly restaurants: 80.3% - Commercial facilities: 69.9% - Travel: 55.9%
Comments from respondents included:
'I use it to protect my dog, who is not good with crowds.' 'It's convenient because carrying or using a backpack for long periods tires both the person and the dog.' 'I can relax at a cafe without worrying too much about my surroundings.'
This suggests that pet strollers have become established not just as a means of transportation, but as a way to expand options for outings with pets.
Heat Countermeasures Are Now Common Sense: About 90% Use Cooling Packs, About 75% Use Fans
When asked about 'heat countermeasures taken during outings,' the results were:
- Cooling packs: 86.3% - Cooling mats: 76.1% - Small fans: 74.9%
This shows that many owners are enjoying summer outings by combining multiple heat countermeasures for their pets, who have difficulty regulating their body temperature.
About 70% Want a 'Cooling Fan Function': The Challenge of 'Temperature Control' Remains for Summer Pet Travel
When asked about heat countermeasure functions they would like to have on a pet stroller, 'cooling fan' was the most common at 69.7%, followed by 'automatic temperature control function' and 'temperature display function.'
While many owners are taking heat countermeasures, it was found that they feel challenged in maintaining a comfortable state.
Many comments from respondents included:
'I'm worried because I don't know the temperature inside the stroller.' 'I'm concerned about the effects of direct sunlight in midsummer.' 'I use cooling packs, but I'm also worried about overcooling.'
This indicates a growing need not just for simple ventilation, but for managing the overall temperature and comfort of the space where the pet stays, especially in extreme heat.
Developed from User Feedback: From 'Blowing Air' to 'Conditioning the Space'
AIRBUGGY PET focused on this user feedback and developed the AI-powered smart air conditioning device 'SMART FAN +AI' as a new heat countermeasure solution that goes beyond conventional ventilation.
In recent years, there has been an increase in cases where portable fans for humans are attached to pet strollers. However, in extreme heat, ventilation alone may not ensure sufficient comfort.
Based on its years of expertise in developing pet mobility, AIRBUGGY PET developed this product from the concept of 'making the space inside the cot comfortable.'
The biggest feature is the AI function that detects temperature and humidity and automatically controls the environment to be optimal.
The dual effect of the 'fan' and 'cooling mist' instantly brings the cot to a comfortable temperature. Furthermore, the 'ozone mode,' which powerfully deodorizes and sterilizes odors, viruses, and bacteria inside the cot using the power of ozone, is integrated into a single unit, comprehensively supporting issues that arise during summer travel, such as heat, stuffiness, and odors.
Designed for use within the limited space of a cot, it features a slim design and rounded form that does not easily compress the pet's living space and is considerate of accidental contact.
AIRBUGGY PET proposes a new pet mobility experience that allows for comfortable travel even in midsummer by conditioning the travel space itself through technology.
'SMART FAN +AI'
[Main Features]
- Equipped with AI mode that detects temperature and humidity and automatically adjusts airflow. - Ultra-fine mist that does not wet the pet's fur and prevents overcooling. - Cooling effect of up to approximately -8°C* through the synergistic effect of the fan and mist. - Equipped with ozone mode for deodorizing and sterilizing unpleasant odors. - Automatic sensor stop function during ozone mode operation. - Slim and round shape designed to minimize a feeling of pressure inside the cot. - All operations can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app.
*Approximate value in an environment with 50% humidity. Effects may vary depending on usage conditions.
- Price: 22,000 yen (tax included) - Release Date: Mid-June 2026 - Compatible Products: AIRBUGGY DOME3 series, wiz X - Main Unit Weight: 520g - Dimensions: Depth 6cm x Width 15.5cm x Height 16cm (excluding mounting clip) - Standard Accessories: Mounting clip, USB-C cable (1m), ozone cover - Power Source: Commercially available mobile battery (Capacity 5,000mAh or more, 10,000mAh recommended. PD compatible with PSE mark). *Battery is not included with this product. - Safety Standards: Household appliance safety standard IEC60335-2-65 certified / Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law J55014-1 (H27) - Special Feature Page: https://www.airbuggy.pet/accessory/smartfanai/
'Actual Conditions of Outings with Pets and Heat Countermeasures' Survey Overview
Survey Method: Internet survey Survey Period: May 2026 Survey Target: AIRBUGGY PET CLUB members (pet stroller users) Valid Responses: 558
◼️ About AIRBUGGY PET
AIRBUGGY PET is a pet stroller brand born in 2010 from the Japanese baby stroller brand AIRBUGGY. Designed to safely carry pets such as dogs and cats, it is used for daily walks.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Survey
- Products / services: SMART FAN +AI / wiz X