Technological and easy-to-use GPS trackers have long been included in the mandatory set of accessories for people who monitor their he alth and physical fitness. At the same time, the scope of use of such gadgets is constantly expanding. These days, a small sensor can solve a lot of pet problems. For example, a GPS collar for dogs allows you to track the location of a lost pet. And this is not the only function that is provided in such devices. The modern market offers various modifications of trackers, which differ in both appearance and operational parameters.
General information about devices
A GPS tracker is a typical navigational tracking tool in its operation. Using cellular communication, the sensor sends a signal to the owner's mobile device, telling him the location coordinates. The receiver is embedded in the collar and does not allow the pet to go far from the owner. It is important to consider that a GPS tracker for dogs does not limit the movement of the animal and does not affect its condition in any way. It only gives the user the coordinates of finding the collar. By the way, location accuracy is one of thekey parameters of any navigation tracker.
Modern models are capable of providing coordinate accuracy up to 5 m. The main thing is that in the area where the GPS tracker for dogs is used, the GSM / GPRS network is active. Without it, the device will not be able to communicate with the owner.
Features and benefits of gadgets
The urgency of the problem of lost pets has been haunting designers and technologists for a long time. Therefore, the very concept of this device cannot be called new - the same radio signal was used in collars before. Nevertheless, there are obvious advantages that distinguish the GPS tracker for dogs, regardless of modification. First of all, it is compact, light weight and easy to mount. For an animal, the difference between a conventional collar and its counterpart with a GPS sensor is almost imperceptible. Also, the owner will not feel any particular problems in fixing the device. Next is the battery charge. Of course, there are devices with different battery life capabilities, but on average, the duration of the receiver without charging is a day. In addition, navigation tools allow you to expand the option to control the lost dog. For example, the owner will be able to plot the trajectory of movement, analyze the surrounding area, etc.
Operating instructions
Even when buying, you should considercomplete the device with a suitable SIM card. This is an important point, since communication will be provided through the services of a mobile operator. Before starting operation, insert the card into a special slot. Next, you need to charge the GPS tracker. The instruction usually recommends performing this procedure for about 1.5-2 hours. To charge, just connect the USB cable to the collar. In the process of performing these operations, a series of manipulations with a screwdriver may be required. For the reliability of fasteners, manufacturers provide devices with several layers of body protection, fixing them with special clips. When all the details are installed in their places, you can proceed to the most crucial moment: attaching the collar to the dog. This is done by elementary fastening. The main thing is that the functional part of the device is at the top for better communication quality.
Mini GPS tracker
As noted above, one of the key advantages of GPS receivers for dogs is compactness. But even in the family of such devices, the dimensions can be different. If you need a model for a small pet or for a hunting dog, for which complete freedom of movement is important, then it is recommended to choose mini-trackers. They are smaller, but the functionality of such devices is much lower. In particular, a mini-GPS tracker does not have such a long battery life and may be limited in reception ranges. Otherwise, positioning sensors of this type provide acceptable efficiency. By the way, the cost of such devices is usually lower.
Additional options and features
Along with compact models, there are also devices in extended configurations, equipped with rich options. The basic list of functions of such devices still includes determining the coordinates of the pet in real time. As an addition, it is worth noting the possibility of monitoring the vital signs of the dog. This allows you to control and track your pet's physical activity data, and draw up graphs of his activity. Also, a modern GPS tracker for dogs has the ability to automatically turn on the microphone. This option will allow the owner to assess the environment surrounding the animal through extraneous noise. It is worth noting the possibility of programming the operating modes of the sensor with the compilation of lists of numbers to which the signal should be sent. But such options are present in almost any tracker today.
Models and prices
The cost varies from 7-8 to 60 thousand rubles. It all depends on the configuration, the reliability of the electronics used and the list of optional features. To date, the most profitable is the purchase of models from Garmin. For example, in the Astro series, a high-quality GPS tracker is presented, the price of which is 30 thousand rubles. This is the Model 320 equipped with high precision transducers. In addition, with the help of this device, the dog breeder can control the whole pack. Also worth noting is the Alpha series. Representatives of this linediffer in the possibility of physical impact on the animal. By means of minor electrical signals, the owner will be able to give commands to the pet.
Reviews about trackers
The opinions of users of such devices can be compared with the assessment of the operation of GPS alarms. There are practically no complaints about the quality of the performance of direct functions, but there is criticism of the troublesome operation and maintenance of the device. One of the main problems is the need to change and charge the batteries supplied with the GPS tracker. Reviews also recommend a more careful approach to the choice of design and construction of such collars. Oddly enough, it is this seemingly insignificant aspect that is important in the process of using the device. Animals may not accept devices of certain colors, so it's best to experiment with different models initially.
Conclusion
The skeptical layman may see new technology as useless. After all, an attentive and responsible owner will not lose a pet, and buying a collar for 8-10 thousand rubles. seems like a real waste. Of course, there is some truth in this reasoning. But a technological collar with GPS for dogs allows you not only to insure the animal in case of loss. This is a means of monitoring the indicators of its activity, the ability to issue commands at a distance and a number of other options. By the way, it is not necessary to use this device on every walk. You can put on the collar just before you go totrip to nature. Also, the receiver can be useful as a means of monitoring children and the elderly, and their safety is well worth the investment.
