Thursday, May 12, 2011

Are All GPS Dog Collars the Same?



GPS Pet Tracking Collars are the latest popular items with pet owners all over the country. If you have a dog and you worry about him getting lost or running away, there is no better alternative available than a GPS dog collar to track and locate missing pets. These pet collars all work on the same principle of alerting you when your pet goes astray using the latest in Global Positioning Satellite technology. Yes – the same technology that provides your car with directions can now help you find your beloved pet. Over the course of the last few months, the market has been flooded with many different types of GPS dog collars. Be aware that not all of these are on the same footing as each other or offer the same services or assurances. When choosing the perfect GPS collar for your dog, make sure that you do your homework, as all GPS dog collars are definitely not the same!

First, in terms of comparisons is the price factor. GPS dog collars are available in break-the-bank options to middle of the range to budget-friendly versions. And while the choice might seem obvious, don’t automatically reach for the cheaper versions. The slightly pricier collars often have many more handy add-ons and inclusions that justify their expense in the long run. The old adage is true when purchasing a GPS pet collar for your pet, you get what you pay for!

In terms of range covered, some dogs collars work well both indoors and outside while others are limited by the cell service they are linked with. Check with the service provider and ask around about coverage before making a final decision. In much the same vein, some tracking collars can only track your dog within a one mile radius while others offer a range of up to ten miles in all directions. The best GPS pet collars do not have range limitations.

Size is another factor, as most of the GPS dog collars in the market today are suitable only for dogs thirty pounds and heavier. So, look around for the lightest and most durable model for long-term comfort and security. Battery life varies from model to model. Most are rechargeable but there are significant differences in the lasting power of each brand. Some providers also offer alerts if the collar’s batteries are low or need recharging.

How you receive your alerts is another area of discrepancy. Budget versions of the GPS collars send you alerts via email or cell phone. Some offer access to a 24/7-customer service helpline. Others provide you with your very own hand-held receiver that can guide you to your lost dog. There are GPS tracking systems, which also provide you with a seven-day history of your dog’s movements and patterns. The more sophisticated among the models will alert you if your dog is moving over a certain speed limit, indicating that he might be stolen and being carried away in a vehicle. All these additions are invaluable in keeping your pet safe in the long run.

One of the most popular GPS dog tracking collars today is the SpotLight GPS Pet Locator. SpotLight attaches to the collar of your dog and is rugged, durable, and has a removable and rechargeable battery. With a SpotLight GPS Pet Locator, you can pre-determine certain SafeSpots or zones that your pet can roam freely within (such as your yard or local dog park). If your dog leaves these virtual zones, you are notified through email and/or text alerts. SpotLight then gives you detailed directions on how to reach your dog. SpotLight is the only GPS Pet Locator that offers 24/7 recovery service through its alliance with American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery (AKC CAR). Professional recovery specialists are always on call to talk you through locating your missing pet and will offer you assistance and support while the search is on.

The SpotLight GPS Pet Locator also comes with several different plans and payment options, making it affordable and a value for money option to keep your pet safe at all times. Visit www.spotlightgps.com for more information.