Training Hunting Dogs and the Use of Tracking Collars

March 12, 2009

Question: I am training hunting dogs for bear and pig hunting and need to buy new tracking collars. I’ve always used these old radio frequency collars but see that GPS collars are now available and cheaper to buy. One of the guys I hunt with said he thinks they are illegal. Is that true? (Marty H., Turlock)

Answer: Yes. GPS (global positioning system) collars and collars with treeing switches are prohibited when using dogs for the pursuit and take of mammals or for dog training (CCR Title 14 Section 265). GPS retrieval collars employ electronics that utilize satellite transmissions. Collars with treeing switches utilize a mercury switch mechanism that changes the collars’ signal transmission when the dog raises its head toward a treed animal.

One of the worst regs on the books.

+1 it's the perfect example of a law based on emotions,  not science! Unfortunately many laws in this state are put in place on and by emotions.