There's a common confusion: many believe that electronic microchips and GPS trackers for pets serve the same purpose. However, these technologies are fundamentally different, each addressing specific needs in terms of safety and tracking of our four-legged friends.
Characteristics and Functions of GPS Trackers
GPS trackers are real-time tracking devices designed to be attached to your pet’s collar or harness. With a featherweight design (27 grams for Weenect trackers), they are light enough not to inconvenience your pet while offering valuable peace of mind. The real value of GPS trackers lies in their ability to provide you with the exact location of your pet via a dedicated app. Whether your dog wanders off during a walk or your cat explores the neighborhood, the GPS tracker allows you to track their movements in real time, ensuring a quick recovery if they get lost.
The Role of Microchips in Animals
In contrast, microchips are tiny devices implanted under the animal’s skin, often comparable to the size of a grain of rice. Unlike GPS trackers, microchips have no location or tracking functionality. Their primary purpose is identification: in case of loss, if the animal is brought to a shelter or veterinarian, the chip can be scanned to reveal the owner’s contact details. Although essential for reuniting lost animals with their owners, microchips do not provide the proactive security and real-time tracking offered by GPS trackers.
Conclusion
In summary, GPS trackers and microchips serve distinct purposes. The GPS tracker is an active monitoring tool, allowing you to locate and track your pet in real-time. The microchip, on the other hand, is a passive identification means, useful only when the animal is found by someone else. For comprehensive protection, the combined use of these two technologies is highly recommended.
💡 Did You Know?
To ensure your pet’s safety, it is advisable to combine the use of a microchip for identification in case of loss, with a GPS tracker for active tracking and daily peace of mind.