GPS for Pets

 "Say something idiotic and nobody but a dog politely wags his tail."
Virginia Graham

If you're looking for the latest in proven technology to help keep track of your pets, look no further than GPS and two-way wireless technology.

GPS, or global positioning system, provides an excellent way to track your pet's whereabouts, no matter where you are.  Simply attach the GPS collar to your animal and voila!  You can locate him or her in a flash.

Here are just a few situations where GPS for pets will give you peace of mind:

• The backyard escape artist.  If your pooch loves to climb that fence, then keep him in sight with a GPS dog collar.
• While you travel.  If you lose your pet in unfamiliar surroundings, having a GPS pet tracker handy will make finding him or her easier.
• Theft prevention.  Pets nowadays are a valuable asset.  Protect your investment and your best friend with pet GPS.

When looking for a GPS unit, consider the options available to you.  Some key things to look for when making your choice:

• Water resistant.  If your pup goes splashing through a creek, will the system hold up?
• Weatherproof.  Can the unit handle extremes in cold and heat?
• Coverage area.  Obviously, the more coverage the system provides, even in heavily wooded areas, the better.
• Update frequency.  If your pet is lost, you need to find her fast.  Frequent updating on her location is a must.
• Cost.  With GPS for pets costing upwards of $1500, finding effective systems for a reasonable price is important.

In our experience, the best product out there right now for dogs is GlobalPetFinder.

Though not recommended for cats and toy dogs (though one is on the way!), GlobalPetFinder requires access to wireless service so updates can be routed to your cell phone, computer and PDA.  Simply set your pup's fence boundary via GlobalPetFinder's website and you're on your way to dog security. 

GlobalPetFinder features include:

• Harmless.  It's non-invasive, requiring no installation or surgical implantation and does not use electric shock on your pet.
• Build a virtual fence of any size.  Upload up to five fence locations for use at any one time.
• Any time your dog wanders outside his boundary, GlobalPetFinder alerts you immediately and provides continual updates to your cell phone, PDA or computer.
• Switch modes to travel with your pet outside the virtual fence without disruption.
• If you lose your animal, simply dial F-O-U-N-D from your phone or PDA to locate your dog immediately.
• GlobalPetFinder monitors temperature, too, so owners will be alerted if conditions become dangerously hot or cold.
• Available to Canadian pet owners, too.
• Cost:  $349.99 (requires $34.99 activation fee and monthly service plan).

"To err is human - to forgive, canine."
Anonymous