GPS Chips vs. GPS Collars – The Smarter Choice to Keep Your Pet Safe
Did you know that lost cats and dogs are actually a common phenomenon? According to the American Humane Society, about 10 million cats and dogs are lost each year. The exciting thing is that modern technology has made it easy to locate them again. Like every new pet owner is well aware, investing in a tractive collar or GPS chip for dogs may help quickly locate the lost pet in case you do lose him. Statistics show that at least 85% of lost dogs and cats are now recovered thanks to the GPS collars and chips they wear.
To answer your next question, both devices are very handy in keeping your pet safe. In case you’re wondering which one is more effective and easier to use, ask these questions and then make your decision.
How Do the Devices Work?
The GPS chip is a small gadget that is around 11 to 14 mm in length and 2 to 2.2 mm in thickness. This chip carries a unique 15-digit identification number that indicates your name and contact details. Anyone finding your lost pet can read the ID using a Radio Frequency Identification data scanner. In this way, the finder can track you down and restore your four-legged friend to you. The GPS collar is a tracker that you can attach to the collar of your pet and comes with a battery. Once you activate it, you’ll receive a signal sent to your mobile phone app. Using the map included in the tool, you’ll know the exact real-time location of the animal wherever he may be. The dimensions of most trackers are around 51 x 41 x 15mm and they weigh around 35gms.
Will I Need Vet Assistance?
Should you choose the GPS chip, know that you must take the pet to the vet to have it inserted as this article on the Humane Society of the United States explains. The expert professional will use a syringe to carefully insert the chip between the shoulder blades of the animal. Rest assured that the procedure is painless and your furry friend will not even feel its presence. As for the GPS tracker, you can affix it to the collar of your pet on your own. Using the device is extremely easy and pretty much self-explanatory once you turn it on. The company selling you the device will include detailed instructions that you can follow.
How Often Do I Charge the Battery?
GPS chips do not have a battery and once you have them inserted, no other maintenance is needed. As this feature on GetPebby reveals, GPS collars operate on battery power that lasts for 4 to 5 days once fully charged. The trackers also have a small LED screen that indicates when the power is running low along with power saving modes. In this way, you have the option to switch off the device at night when the pet is sleeping or in the house and unable to get out.
Can Any-Sized Pet Wear the Device?
There are no size and weight restrictions for inserting the GPS chip and even the smallest animal can safely carry it. However, the GPS tracker is only suitable for pets that weigh at least 4.5kgs.
Can the Gadget Work Under All Conditions?
GPS chips are non-electronic devices hidden inside the pet’s skin so you need not worry about malfunctioning if they get wet or overheat. GPS collars are also waterproof so even if the animal gets caught in the rain, decides to go for a swim, or wallows in mud, you’ll continue to receive a signal about its whereabouts. However, do keep in mind that the chips will display their data only when read with a RFID scanner. For this reason, the finder of your lost pet must take him to a vet or capable person. On the other hand, trackers transmit signals without the need for scanners.
Can the Device Protect My Pet from Thieves?
While both gadgets can help locate your pet, they may be ineffective against thieves. While GPS chips need to be scanned, trackers can be simply detached, turned off, and discarded. A determined thief with no intention of returning your pet will likely get rid of the collar as soon as he spots it. Essentially, your pet has to be wearing an actively transmitting gadget for you to be able to pinpoint his geographical location.
What if My Pet Loses the Tracker?
Obviously, there’s no way your pet can lose the GPS chip. As for the tracker, there is a possibility that the collar comes off then the animal is playing or gets into a fight. If that happens when your furry friend is out exploring on his own, it could be difficult to trace him. However, most manufacturing companies will replace the gadget as part of the service package they offer you.
Can I use the Device with Multiple Pets?
If needed, you can switch the GPS collar among your pets simply by removing the tracker and replacing it around the neck of another animal you’re taking for a walk or run. This facility lends flexibility to your investment and gives you good value for money.
Do Gadgets Have Other Features?
A GPS chip is just that – a chip carrying your contact details. But, like the folks at Business Insider outline, the GPS collar can go a lot more. For instance, you’ll receive a detailed history of all the locations your pet has visited. Using your smartphone, you can program a specific safe radius. As soon as the dog steps out of this designated area, you’ll receive an alert. The device will also send you signals if the dog is barking or his body temperature changes. Modern-day collars are so advanced that they’ll maintain records of the animal’s medical history and send you reminders when the next checkup and shots are due.
With so many features of both the chip and the tracking collar, it would make sense to get your pet a combination of the two. As a result, you can keep your furry friend protected from getting lost and not being able to find his way home. Use technology and you’ll never have to worry about losing your pet again.
Images – Chipithenaughty
