Garmin does not only come up with navigation solutions for those who have a bad sense of direction on the road (and maybe even in life), as they cater to pet owners as well with the latest DC 30 GPS dog tracking collar that is meant to be used with the Astro GPS Dog Tracking System. This new collar offers a toughness that is superior to its predecessor, and you get differently position antennas for optimal tracking. According to Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales, “The new DC 30 collar is designed to stand up to the torturous abuse of hunting dogs. Whether it’s hounds crashing through thick and swampy woods, or bird dogs bounding through dense CRP fields, the DC 30 is made to take the beating that working dogs dish out daily. And the new configuration also makes mounting the collar a cinch - while improving reception.”

The DC 30 collar’s main housing is weighted to sit below the dog’s neck, while a small, low-profile GPS antenna is integrated into the collar strap and positioned on top of the dog’s neck, providing a clear view of satellites with minimal rotation. The transmitter antenna originates from the lower housing, and has been redesigned for more flexibility and ruggedness. No counterbalance or harness is needed. The weight for the transmitter plus antenna is 4.1 ounces, and the entire DC 30 weighs just 8.7 ounces. Used in conjunction with the Astro 220 receiver, the system pinpoints exactly where your dog is and what he’s doing — running, pointing, or treeing - even in dense cover, up to seven miles away, depending on terrain.

Sounds more like a purchase for those who take up the bloody and vicious sport of hunting, although there might be other pet owners of a more docile nature who prefer to get this just so they can keep track of where Lassie went.

Press Release