Andorra Launches Free Geolocation Devices for Adopted Pets to Prevent Escapes

The Animal Rescue and Protection Association (ARPA), in collaboration with GosSOS and the NAMI dog protection association, has launched a worldwide pioneering initiative to enhance the safety of pet adoptions in Andorra. The programme provides free geolocation devices for all dogs and cats adopted or fostered through the Andorra Canine Protection Centre and NAMI.

ARPA president Laura Valero emphasised that animal escapes do not always stem from owner negligence. Entity data indicate that 90% of cases arise from unforeseeable circumstances beyond prior control. She cautioned that owners often underestimate risks, assuming well-trained pets will not flee.

The effort targets the adaptation phase after adoption, when escape risks peak as animals adjust to new families. Devices enable real-time tracking via a mobile app, allowing swift responses to incidents. Beyond location, they monitor health metrics including vital signs, respiratory rate, and heart rate, aiding oversight of animals with complex needs.

The campaign aims for permanence rather than a one-off action. It addresses animal welfare alongside public concerns over issues like livestock attacks, where quick identification of involved animals supports regulatory requirements for constant location monitoring.

The system extends to fostering, where multiple supervisors can share app access for coordinated tracking of high-risk animals. Valero noted its proven value in recent operations, where firefighters and police used the app to streamline rescue coordination, as reported by the Andorran News Agency (ANA).