If you have a dog that you have to leave by itself, this thing is a must. Previously, my dog would start feeling anxious after around 4 hours of being by himself, escalating to noticeable distress by the 6-hour mark. Since using this product, he can comfortably spend up to 10 hours alone without exhibiting any signs of stress upon my return from work.
Tossing a treat once every hour is enough to keep your pet engaged and prevent them from fixating on your absence and sitting behind the door the whole time.
Now the deal. The normal Furbo's usual price is $319 (now on sale for $249). The subscription based version (which is new), is now on sale for $159 with a coupon that brings it down to $119.
The subscription model needs an active subscription to work (duh!), however, the subscription is only mandatory for the first 3 months. At $10 a month, that's $30.
So even with the $30 for the mandatory subscription, you're effectively getting the usually $359 device for $149.
Speaking from personal experience, I find the subscription worthwhile. The app is really smart and the subscription offers continuous alerts for barking, crying, howling, CO/smoke, and glass breaking (these are in addition to the alerts that you get without subscription). Trust me, the alerts actually work, and you have the option to adjust their sensitivity to suit your preferences.
If you have any questions, ask away.
P.S.: just to clarify, the initial subscription only opens up additional software features (like the alerts that I mentioned above) and is not required for the device's basic functions like live viewing, tossing treats, and basic alerts. However, 3 months of subscription is still mandatory for this deal.
Have always wondered if these are effective, thanks for sharing your experience in the desc OP.