I wasn't sure where to put this, but I read about one post in the "Invisible Fence" thread about GPS collars.

I have read about the GPS and USB/Recue collars from PetSafe.com and they do look very tempting to use. Here's a couple links:

USB/Rescue Collar:

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GPS Collar:

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In my opinion, even though the GPS collar is a great tool for potential escape artists, I would not use it because of the nature of GPS systems - they transmit microwave signals. Although they are safe for the dogs (and cats) to wear, I don't like the prospect of having them exposed to these signals at such a close range (it's on their neck!) for long periods of time. Oh, and batteries are a hassle.

The USB/Rescue collar, however, is just a tool to store more information about your dog that just cannot (and will not) fit on the traditional dog tags. I know many people on this forum raw feed their dogs and/or their dogs don't take well to kibble. There's also all that other info you want to put on your dog just in case he/she is found by someone - the answer is the USB/Rescue collar. It's a small USB key that is held in a waterproof compartment that's permanently attached to the collar. You can store information about a special diet, medical needs, detailed contact info, etc. Best thing of all: no batteries! It's compatible with any computer with a USB drive.

Of course, it's also a very good idea to get your dog or cat microchipped and complement that with GPS or Rescue Collar technology.

I have included a poll to quench my never-ending thirst of curiosity, so it'd be very nice to get some feedback. Let the discussion begin...?

I would be interested in the GPS collar.
My dogs do not wear collars in the house anyway, I worry that when they are playing they may get their teeth caught, as the neck is always the area they head for when play fighting.
So I think exposure to the microwaves wouldn't be too much of a problem just out on walks, incase they decide one day to take off and get lost.
The USB collar would be a good idea as well.

Shame they don't have non microwaveable GPS under the skin microchips like you see on tv

Being the tech geek that I am, I totally forgot about teeth being snagged on the devices! Haha.

I guess I may consider the GPS collar strictly for outside use - on walks or in the yard. Although, I think I will definitely use the USB collar at all times to store extra info on it such as vet info and medical history.

blufawn wrote:

Shame they don't have non microwaveable GPS under the skin microchips like you see on tv

I didn't know there were GPS microchips...I should have known, but I didn't. lol. I see why they wouldn't allow GPS microchips for pets though - exposure to microwaves 24/7. But isn't it funny because we, humans, are exposed to all sorts of "waves" that are bad for us! (like this computer I'm on, for instance. XD)[/quote]