About GPS Dog Tracking Systems

GPS dog tracking systems enable pet owners to keep track of their animals and help locate missing dogs when they wander outside of their designated safe area. By sending an alert to a handheld device, pet owners can either directly track their missing pet or call a customer service phone line for assistance in locating their missing animal. GPS dog tracking systems ensure dogs are never able to wander too far from home, and protect them from the dangers of cars and other animals. Although somewhat expensive, with most models costing at least several hundred dollars, GPS tracking devices are considered a necessary expense by most pet owners who care for the health and safety of their animals.

  1. Significance

    • Dogs have a tendency to wander away from home, even if it means they must jump fences or dig holes to do so. Only 15 to 20 percent of dogs are recovered by their owners, according to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy. This means that more than 80 percent of missing dogs are never found. Most dogs that are recovered are identified using tags, microchips or tracking technology. Any pet owner who wishes to improve their chances of finding their missing dog must invest in some sort of advanced identification or tracking aid, such as a GPS dog tracking system.

    Types

    • The two main types of GPS dog tracking systems available include tracking function via cellular carriers and tracking via standard radio waves. GPS tracking systems that transmit pet location information via cell phone transmissions enable pet owners to track their pet by phone or over the Internet. Unfortunately, this type of tracking method does not work in areas without cell coverage and generally requires an ongoing service charge. GPS tracking systems that utilize radio waves are typically free to use, but the transmission range is often very limited. Location data is sent over radio waves to a handheld receiver that displays real-time information about the pet's whereabouts.

    Function

    • GPS dog tracking systems utilize assisted global positioning satellite technology to track and locate missing animals. The dog is fitted with a transmitter that alerts the owner if the dog strays too far from the designated safe area. The tracking system then enables the owner to locate the pet via a transmission. GPS dog tracking systems work in a similar method to GPS systems for automobiles. Basically, the system notifies the owner if the dog has strayed, then updates the owner on the dog's location until the animal can be captured. Some GPS devices require you to call a helpline once an alert has sounded. Service representatives then track the animal for the user and relay the information back to the pet owner.

    Benefits

    • Any pet owner who has lost a beloved animal knows how important it is to keep their dog safe and find them quickly should they become lost. Wandering dogs are at risk of being stolen, hit by cars or killed by other animals. GPS dog tracking systems are becoming increasingly affordable, and can save pet owners a lot of time, frustration and heartache. Plus, GPS dog tracking systems not only help pet owners by locating missing dogs, they benefit society by reducing the population of strays and the overcrowding of pet shelters and humane societies.

    Considerations

    • Before purchasing a GPS dog tracking system, research the system thoroughly. Look for a device with a long battery life, and make certain the coverage area or range is suitable for your area. Other considerations include the weight of the device and any lifestyle requirements that may need to be met, such as choosing a device that is waterproof or able to withstand extremes in temperature. It is also crucial to keep your dog's size in mind. Very small dogs may find wearing a GPS tracking system uncomfortable, and some may even suffer neck or back injuries if forced to wear a heavy unit for a prolonged period.