I’ve started experimenting with using a small GPS tracking device to track Chewie’s movement.
It’s a Tractive tracker, which people often use to track the activities of their dog when out walking or hiking. Or, to be able to find the dog if the dog gets lost!
I generally only visit Chewie one time per day.
So, I’m curious to use the tracker to learn more about her behavior. How much does she move around? Where does she spend the most time on the property? How does her behavior change in response to other events — if I give her access to a new pasture for grazing, if I put out more enrichment activities, or if it is raining?
At first, I tried putting the tracker on the top of her fly mask, behind her ears. However, over the course of four days, she managed to remove the fly mask twice, which she usually does not do.
I’m not sure if wearing the tracker was uncomfortable and if she was purposefully removing the mask. Or, it may have just been unbalanced and easier for the mask to come off on its own.
So, we are now trying a new location — attaching the tracker under her chin. So far, this arrangement seems to be working much better.
She has worn the tracker successfully for several days without removing the fly mask.
I’m curious to see the data I collect and what I am able to learn from it.
I’ll report back later on and share more about our tracking adventures!
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