For pet owners, keeping their eyes on their dog’s movement round the clock is a “no can do.” Whether you leave your pets at home when you go to work or you take your dogs on a walk in the park, the risk of losing them looms.
Dogs are good sniffers and can follow a scent miles away from your house, making it difficult to track them. And when they are not sniffing, they can chase other animals or follow other dogs till they are lost. For finding a lost dog, there are several innovative tracking devices, such as GPS collars, that are making it possible for pet owners to keep an eye on their dogs’ location in real-time. If you are unsure about what to consider when choosing a tracking device, discover helpful tips.
Bluetooth or GPS Tracker?
While there are various technologies for tracking pets, the two most common that come to mind are GPS and Bluetooth trackers. These technologies vary based on their range, accuracy and cost. Is your dog more likely to stay close to you?
Perhaps you are the careful type that keeps them on a leash when strolling. In that case, a Bluetooth pet tracker might be a wonderful choice. This is because it has a limited range—between 100-200 feet. If your furry companion is an explorer, a GPS-tracking device might be a better option.
With this gadget attached to your dog, you can track it over a wide range. GPS uses signals from satellites to help you accurately track your dogs, while obstacles and other mobile gadgets users can affect a Bluetooth tracker.
How Durable Is the Tracking Device?
You can always keep your dogs indoors—there will be no need to buy a tracking device if you do. Since your pets get lost in the open, untamed outdoors, it is normal to expect them to be exposed to the elements of weather and the tracker too.
Rain, snow and varying temperatures can quickly damage any electronic devices you attach to your dog’s collar. That is why you must consider the durability of the tracker from the get-go.
Evaluate its water-resistant ability. It is wise that you select a gadget that has an IP67 or IP68 rating to guarantee that it is protected from water and dust. Also, remember that dogs can scratch their collar, so if the device is attached to a collar, ensure that the collar is made of tough materials that will not tear easily.
Think about the Tracker’s Battery Life
What if your dog gets lost for a long time? While you will put in more effort to find it, you will agree that a GPS that stays on for a long time will complement your efforts. That is why you should prioritize the tracking device’s battery life.
Some of the GPS collars you will find in the market are rechargeable and will last for a certain time on a single charge. Most tracking appliance brands will stay on for several weeks, while some will last for a few days. So, ensure you review this feature before making your purchasing decision when shopping for a GPS.
Not only does your pet’s GPS need a high-quality, long-lasting battery, but you should also go for something that makes it easy for you to know when it is time to charge the gadget. Perhaps, something that gives out an alarm or sends an alert to your mobile notifying you that the battery is running low.
Your Budget Matters
As you shift through different choices, the cost of the device can be a factor in narrowing down the options. Of course, you want something worth every penny you spend on it. However, remember that an expensive dog tracker doesn’t necessarily mean that it is the right one for your pet. That is why you should consider all the features first before you compare prices.
Most tracking appliances would require you to pay to be able to use their apps and enjoy their features. Since subscription costs vary, you should select one that aligns with your budget.
Choosing the Right Tracking Device Leads to a Stress-free Outcome
As a pet lover who looks out for your dogs—even treats them like family—you know how worrying it is when your pet gets lost. Worse still, your worries will increase if the tracker that is supposed to help find your dog isn’t functioning as intended. This calls for careful consideration of the features of the gadget you decide to pick. Your decision should be based primarily on location accuracy, durability and extended battery life and not solely on price. When you select a suitable device, tracking your dog will be a stress-free exercise.
