GPS tracking hardware for other items, such as TrackR, Chipolo and Duet

[obiwan1]

I was attracted by the concept of GPS to be able to map where your lost item might be. I thought it might be a great idea if there was a mapping tracker which could provide a trail of location information - particularly good if something is stolen. However, I have done some research and, am I correct in saying, the location info is only from other people with the same device that wander past your item? So, very handy in Cupertino, CA, but almost useless if you are an early adopter and have the only device in your area.

I am particularly interested in tracking our dog, which has been known to wander. Is there a device to do this? Would it need to be stand-alone, with its own SIM card or something similar?

I am not very techie, so any help or guidance would be much appreciated.

 

[STARGATE]

I remember something about standalone GPS units in collars for pets, I just can't remember where I saw it.
Have you checked in big box pet stores?

 

[obiwan1]

This might have some merit, although there is the additional SIM card cost and only several days' battery life.
Tkstar Mini Waterproof GSM GPS Tracker Free APP Android Iphone Free Platform | eBay

This is a specialist pet product, but again battery is an issue.

Dog GPS Tracking Systems  | Track Your Dog with the Tagg GPS Pet Tracker

Can't have it all, I guess!