GPS microchips for dogs are often misunderstood; they do not provide real-time location tracking for your pet. Instead, they serve as identification devices when scanned by a vet or animal shelter.
- Microchips are non-tracking identification devices.
- Requires a scanner to read the chip's unique ID number.
- Relies on database information to contact owners.
- Complemented by GPS collars or smart devices for tracking.
This matters because understanding the limitations of microchips can help pet owners make informed decisions about additional safety measures, like using GPS collars, to ensure quick recovery if a pet goes missing.
To learn more about keeping your pet safe, please book a consultation with Dial A Vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do microchips work if they don't track my pet?
Microchips are implanted under your pet’s skin and contain a unique identification number. When a scanner is used by a veterinarian or shelter, this ID number is retrieved and matched with a database to contact the pet's owner.
- What should I use to track my dog in real-time?
For real-time tracking, consider GPS collars or smart devices that provide location data via a connected app on your smartphone.
- Why is it still important to microchip my pet?
Microchipping is important because it provides a permanent way to identify your pet, even if they lose their collar or tags. It increases the chances of being reunited if your pet is found.
