GPS for Dogs and Cats – Modern Technologies in the Service of Animal Safety

Every dog or cat owner who has ever experienced the moment when their pet disappears from sight knows how terrifying this situation can be. Losing a pet, especially in a big city or open spaces, can be very stressful. Fortunately, technology is stepping up to address these problems, offering innovative solutions such as GPS systems for dogs and cats. In this article, we will discuss what GPS for animals is, its benefits, and clear up any doubts regarding microchips and their role in animal location.

Table of Contents:

1. Does a microchip for a dog have GPS?

2. Can a dog with a microchip be located?

3. How does GPS for dogs work?

4. Can a dog have GPS under its skin?

5. What GPS devices for dogs are available on the market?

6. FAQ - GPS for Dogs and Cats - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does a microchip for a dog have GPS?

A microchip is one of the most effective animal identification tools, ensuring safety in case of loss or theft. It is a small device implanted under the skin of a dog or cat, and its only function is to store a unique identification number. A microchip does not have GPS functionality. Its role is only to enable the identification of the animal via a scanner. The microchip is a passive device, which does not emit a signal and does not allow tracking the location of the animal in real-time.

In contrast to a microchip, GPS for dogs and cats is an active device that allows real-time tracking of the animal’s location via a phone or computer application. GPS is a technology that allows for the precise determination of the animal’s position in real-time, which is particularly useful in case of escape or the pet getting lost.

2. Can a dog with a microchip be located?

Although a microchip is an excellent solution for identifying animals, it does not allow for locating a dog. A microchip is not an active location device – it does not emit any signals and cannot be used for real-time tracking of a dog. When a dog is lost, the microchip helps only with identification when it is found and scanned by a veterinarian or shelter worker. However, it does not allow the owner to immediately locate the dog in the field.

Therefore, if you want the ability to monitor your dog’s location in real-time, GPS for dogs will be a much more effective solution. It is worth noting that some modern solutions combine the functions of a microchip and GPS, allowing full identification and tracking of the animal.

3. How does GPS for a dog work?

GPS for dogs is a location system based on Global Positioning System technology, which allows for real-time monitoring of a dog’s position. The GPS device is usually mounted on the dog's collar or attached to its clothing. It works similarly to traditional GPS in cars or mobile phones, using satellite signals to determine the position.

Once the GPS device is mounted, the owner can track the dog's location using a phone or computer application. Many GPS systems also allow the setting of a “safe zone.” If the dog leaves the designated area, the owner receives an immediate notification. This solution is particularly useful when pets tend to wander or escape.

It is worth noting that GPS systems for dogs are generally weather-resistant, such as rain, so you don’t have to worry about the device in harsh weather conditions. However, these devices require regular charging since their operation depends on batteries.

4. Can a dog have GPS under its skin?

Despite technological advances, there is currently no way to implant GPS under a dog’s skin in the same way a microchip is implanted. GPS technologies are too advanced and require an external device with a battery, which could be installed on the collar or another type of band on the dog’s body.

Theoretically, one might think of miniaturizing GPS devices to the size of a microchip, but due to the need for power and signal communication issues, it is currently not possible in practice. For this reason, it is best to use traditional GPS devices, which can be easily mounted on a collar or another part of the dog’s clothing without requiring invasive procedures. Currently, there is no technology that allows storing enough battery power to run a GPS system inside the dog’s body.

5. What GPS devices for dogs are available on the market?

Currently, there are many GPS devices for dogs available on the market, which differ in functionality, price, and performance. Many of these devices allow for real-time tracking of the dog and offer features such as:

Safe Zones – the ability to set geographical boundaries, after which the owner receives a notification.

Activity Monitoring – some devices allow monitoring of the dog's activity, which is useful if you want to check whether the dog is active enough.

Waterproof – most GPS devices for dogs are waterproof, which allows them to be used in various weather conditions.

Popular brands offering GPS devices for dogs include Tractive, Whistle, Garmin, and FitBark, which are widely popular among pet owners worldwide.

6. FAQ – GPS for Dogs and Cats – Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

GPS for dogs and cats is a modern solution that allows owners to monitor the location of their pets in real time. While a microchip is an effective method for identifying animals, it does not allow them to be located. GPS, on the other hand, is an active tracking tool that enables quick retrieval of a dog if it gets lost or escapes. Thanks to technological advancements, we can now enjoy the safety of our pets, having full control over their location, which is becoming increasingly important in today's world. Remember that while GPS is a great tool, the microchip remains an irreplaceable form of identification in the case of a dog’s disappearance.