A lost pet can lead to years of sadness and uncertainty. This little gadget can prevent that heartache.
What it is
The Loc8tor (about $100 on Amazon) is a rangefinder and radio beacon for your pet.
How it works
The pet wears a lightweight (5 grams) radio beacon tag on his collar. When you want to find him, you activate the rangefinder, which is about the size of a credit card. Lights and sound direct you to the tag. The tag also emits a faint beep and flashes a mild red light, which can be helpful in finding the pet. The unit has a range of about 400 feet (line of sight) outside. The signal goes through walls to the extent that you can use it in a house.
Whom it's good for
Anyone who has a valued pet. It can be a lifesaver if your pet gets lost, and it is a convenience when the little rascal is hiding. Some cat owners say that when their cats hear their tags beeping, they'll recognize that they are wanted and report in.
Inveterate key losers will also find this system useful. Just don't lose the rangefinder.
More info
- Two tags come with the unit; additional tags can be purchased.
- Each unit can track up to four individual tags.
- The tags are lightweight at 5 grams. This is the only device of its kind that is light enough for cats.
- A bit of effort is needed to use it. The rangefinder basically tells you "you're getting hotter" or "you're getting colder." So you'll need the skill and patience of a young child to be successful.
- Costs around $100.
- Use the silicone protectors on the tags. They protect them from water and fang marks.
- Test the batteries on the rangefinder and on the tags every three months or so. Follow the directions on page 10 of the manual.
- Batteries from Loc8tor seem to last much longer than bargain batteries from eBay.
- To open a tag, insert your thumbnail into the slit near the hole for the lanyard. Keeping your thumbnail in the slit, slide you thumbnail down the length of the tag until it pops apart.
