You knew it was coming sooner or later, so don't act surprised: Positioning Animals Worldwide and American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery have announced the availability of SpotLight GPS Pet Locator. 

Developed by PAW, SpotLight combines GPS tracking technology with the 24/7 AKC CAR recovery services, paving the way home for the millions of pets that go missing each year.

"With an estimate of one-third of all dogs going missing at least once in their lifetime, SpotLight will help reduce this number," says Chris Newton, CEO of PAW.

"Our mission is simple, provide the market with products and services to reduce the number of lost pets... through this partnership, we are able to offer owners peace of mind knowing that their dogs are safe at home or, should they escape, be quickly returned," Newton said.

SpotLight customers also receive a lifetime enrollment in AKC CAR, which includes a collar tag (News - Alert) with ID number. Fitting on the dog's collar, SpotLight "senses" when the dog leaves the configurable boundary, dubbed a "SafeSpot.” Upon escape, SpotLight alerts the owner via text message, e-mail or both. To ensure immediate recovery, the owner then receives the dog's real-time location and turn-by-turn directions to the dog. 

In addition, the AKC CAR recovery team is on call around the clock for assistance with the tracking and recovery. SpotLight comes equipped with a "rescue" button so that if the pet is found, a Good Samaritan can notify the owner and AKC CAR.

 

Next reality show: "Dog Chase! We're tracking Fido, turn-by-turn, by helicopter as he tries to escape by running through Mrs. Wilcox's geraniums... he clears the fence and is running through the playground now, AKC CAR officers are in pursuit..." 

No doubt the pet will need a visit to one of California's many licensed pet psychiatrists after such an ordeal.

AKC CAR also ffers free lifetime enrollment for all active service, military, and law enforcement K-9s.