Nowadays, when life is going very fast, we have to pay much attention to our pets’ security. Right? With emerging technology, many dog owners have wondering how and where to add the extra feature of GPS tracking to their pet’s identification. Some people may told you that by using microchipping, you can track your dog in real-time. Is this actually true?
Here’s the reality: microchips, though useful when used to search for a lost animal, do not provide dynamic tracking as GPS devices do. An unfortunate title like ‘GPS microchip for dogs‘ has left many pet owners confused about what microchipping can or cannot offer. Microchips for dogs are similar to the installation of ID under the skin but do not show real-time location. On the other hand, there are very effective GPS trackers available on the market that provide real-time location services. Still, such devices work independently from a microchip.
In this blog, we’ll help you know some myths and realities about microchips for pets.
What a Standard Dog Microchip Does vs. What a GPS Chip Offers
The first fact that needs to be clear is that microchips for dog technology do not mean GPS. The process of microchipping a dog takes a chip that is no larger than a grain of rice with a unique identification number that is injected into the animal. This microchip comes with an identification number that can be read by either a vet or an animal shelter. Once the ID number is scanned, the owner can get in touch with any contact details as long as the ID number has been registered in a national database.
Microchips help people find the owners of a missing pet but do not contain data on the dog’s location. This is the main hierarchy—people think that microchips can be tracked online, which is not true at all.
On the other hand, a GPS canine chip, more notably known as a GPS tracking system, enables the pet owner to locate their dog using satellites. These devices often clip on a collar and relay real-time tracking data on a dog’s location via mobile applications.
Common Misconceptions About GPS Microchips for Dogs
There are still some myths about microchips for dogs, about what they can and cannot do.
Let’s address common misconceptions:
Microchips Provide Real-Time Location:
That is not true, as we mentioned earlier. The chip in a dog doesn’t provide the current location of the animal or your pet. It acts only as an identification source that puts out data when a scanner is put on the animal.
A Microchip Is the Same as a GPS Tracker:
A surprising number of people think a microchip and GPS tracker are the same, and while they both assist in identifying animals, both have entirely different functions. However, there is no GPS microchip for dogs—microchips are embedded to act as identification, while GPS devices portray a tracking feature.
Microchips Can Run Out of Battery:
This is another myth. Dog chips do not require batteries. They employ radio frequency identification technology, which is only readable when a device triggers. However, GPS trackers do require battery power to function.
Microchips Are Invasive or Harmful:
Most people are concerned that microchips pose a health risk to their dogs, and some people say so. To be quite honest, dog microchipping is safe and straightforward, and it can take only a few moments. Plus, this method has been used for several decades and has not caused any serious problems. The microchip is implanted easily and is not much more uncomfortable than receiving an injection; it only takes five seconds to complete.
GPS Collars and Tags as Alternatives for Tracking Pets’ Location
The GPS collars or tags are exceptional choices for every owner who would like to track a pet’s location more frequently. While a microchip for dogs cannot give location details, GPS collars work by using signals from satellites to determine your dog’s position.
Here’s how these GPS tracking solutions work:
GPS Collars:
These gadgets go around the neck of the dog and fit around the collar. They also match with mobile applications to display the location of a dog, which means if your pet is out, you can easily locate them. In other words, GPS collars are perfect for playful dogs that do not hesitate to go out for a walk.
GPS Tags:
Similar to collars but usually smaller, these tags can be fixed on a collar and provide similar location features. Some GPS tags do not have essential features but are vital for tracking your dog. For instance, geofencing is a feature that is not necessary but vital for monitoring your dog. Geofencing will notify you if your dog leaves a specified area, such as a backyard.
Both GPS collars and tags are preferable because of the real-time tracking that is unlike that of the dog microchip. However, these devices take batteries and an active internet connection to perform their tasks.
Pros and Cons of Using GPS Tracking Devices vs. Traditional Microchips
As you weigh your options, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of using GPS-tracking devices versus traditional microchips:
Pros of GPS Tracking Devices:
Real-Time Location: GPS tracking is also important because you can always be sure of your dog’s location, reducing anxiety.
Geofencing Features: Some GPS devices can set and range perimeters and will inform you when your dog leaves it.
Easy Monitoring via Smartphone: Most GPS trackers sync up with apps, meaning you can monitor your pet’s location through your phone.
Cons of GPS Tracking Devices:
Battery Life: A GPS tracker wears out its battery very quickly, and if the battery is dead, there is no way you can track your dog.
Higher Cost: The cost of microchips for dogs is higher than microchipping. This is due in part to the added expense of subscription services.
Limited Range: GPS receivers may have poor signal in some areas or regions with scarce signal satellites.
Choosing the Best Option for Your Pet’s Safety
Finally, dog microchipping is good for identifying a dog in case it gets lost, it isn’t a method for constantly tracking the lost dog. The idea of a GPS microchip for dogs is an illusion since microchips and GPS tracking devices are different. In the end, whether you adopt a microchip, a GPS tracker, or both will depend on the dog’s lifestyle and what you prefer as an owner.If anyone wants to get suggestions about microchips for dogs from a genuine provider or if anyone is searching for GPS substitutes, then you must contact Atlas Pet Hospital. They provide the best solution that will guarantee the safety of your dog.