GPS for dogs and cats - How does it work and is it recommended?
GPS is a satellite navigation system that provides information about the location of the user. It is increasingly popular, so much so that we can also find it designed specifically for our pets, dogs and cats. Its usefulness is easy to guess: knowing where they are at all times, which is especially important in certain circumstances.
What is a GPS for dogs and cats?
GPS or global positioning systems are tracking and monitoring devices that allow locations to be detected through GPS satellites, communicating them, in real time, through telephone operator networks or radio signals. GPS for dogs and cats are devices that are placed on the collar or harness and managed via mobile phone, through an application, from wherever we are. In other words, they allow you to follow your steps 24 hours a day in real time.
A good example of GPS for dogs and cats is Tractive, which works with a long-lasting and rechargeable battery and the subscription plan that we choose. It uses an integrated SIM card that connects to the different local networks it passes through. It is placed, using fastening systems, on the collar or harness. The location distance is unlimited and currently works in 175 countries.
It is sold in several models with different shapes, sizes and colors so that it best adapts to the characteristics of the animal. Thus, they have a GPS for cats that weighs only 25 grams and several models to choose from, depending on the size of our animal. They are all designed to withstand bumps and splashes.
In addition to location, it includes other functionalities to help take care of the health of our animal 24 hours a day. For example, it monitors sleep and activity patterns to detect, as soon as possible, any anomaly in daily parameters, of which the application would immediately notify. It also records details of the activity, such as kilometers traveled, with which comparisons can be made, objectives set, etc.
The Tractive GPS for dogs and cats has the possibility of sending very fast anti-leak alerts, so you always know where your animal is. You can establish virtual fences and different safe or prohibited areas. By the way, it should be emphasized that GPS does not replace the microchip, the mandatory identification device that all dogs and cats must carry according to current legislation.
How does a GPS for dogs and cats work?
The operation of this locator for dogs and cats, as we have already mentioned, does not differ from the typical GPS that people use, for example, in vehicles. The device incorporates a receiver for satellite signals.
These are collected on other devices or local cellular networks, which will transmit the location of the animal to our phone, tablet or computer via the Internet, where we can also receive different notifications, depending on the characteristics of the GPS that we choose. It should be noted that these GPS can work with or without a SIM card. The latter have very limited coverage, as they use a conventional radio signal.
When should I put a GPS on my dog or cat?
As we have said, a GPS may be appropriate if our dog or cat goes outside without our supervision or without being on a leash. As animals that they are, even those trained to stay by our side can end up lost by running away if they detect a particularly interesting trail or get scared for any reason, such as a loud noise, the presence of other animals, any stressful situation, etc.
The GPS can be of great help, especially in very skittish animals, with a strong hunting instinct, escapists, with a tendency to hide in inaccessible places or recently adopted ones, which we do not yet control, do not know us or the walking area or present any phobia or fear that can make them flee from even the slightest stimulus.
If the GPS we choose has the functionality of establishing safe or risk areas, it can be a good ally if our animal has a tendency to escape or we want to prevent it from entering certain places, such as neighbors’ gardens or spaces where be in danger from the presence of other animals or vehicles. The GPS will alert us if the animal leaves the marked areas.
It is also a good idea to use GPS during trips, for reasons like those we have explained. In this case, we must make sure that our GPS works at the destination. When an animal gets lost and is wearing a GPS, we ourselves can find out where it is to go pick it up, whether day or night. Without GPS we depend on luck, that is, whether it appears on its own or someone finds it and takes it to the vet to read the microchip data. Although some keepers believe it, the mandatory microchip does not carry any GPS system, only the data of the animal and its legal owner.
Finally, the information that some GPS provide about the animal’s activity can be helpful in controlling this parameter, which is important in some cases, for example, if it is following a weight loss diet or must maintain an optimal weight.
In conclusion, all these advantages offered by GPS for dogs and cats, like the one from Tractive, can be translated into one: the peace of mind of the caregivers.
How to put a GPS on my dog or cat?
Putting a GPS on your dog or cat is very simple, since they are devices that incorporate fastening systems that allow them to be attached to the animal’s collar or harness . Others are already directly incorporated, that is, a collar with GPS for dogs and cats is marketed. It is that fast and convenient. We only have to configure it and manage it from our electronic device.
Of course, if the animal is not used to wearing a collar, it is advisable that we adapt it to it little by little , first letting it wear it for short periods of time inside the home. It is best that you are completely accustomed to it before releasing it outside. Using it first at home also allows you to check that the fastening is correct and adjust it if not.
On the other hand, if we are going to put a pipette , we must first remove the GPS to avoid damaging it. After application, it is recommended to wait 24 hours before replacing the device.
Is a GPS recommended for dogs and cats?
GPS is not harmful to animals, so there is no contraindication to its use . Only the keeper, in view of the characteristics of his animal and its living conditions, as well as the advantages that we have analyzed, will be able to determine whether he considers it necessary or not for his specimen.
In any case, it is advisable to carefully read the specifications of the GPS that interests us to ensure that it meets our requirements and compare various models and brands before making a decision.