Tell people what to do if they see the dog
- Do not chase, whistle, clap, yell, or surround the dog.
- Take a photo or video if it can be done without moving toward the dog.
- Send the exact location, time, and direction of travel.
- Note whether the dog looked tired, injured, calm, panicked, or moving with purpose.
- Keep one phone number on every flyer and online post.
Why chasing can make it worse
Once a dog is scared, the dog may treat people as pressure instead of help. A chase can turn a useful sighting into a wider search area, especially near roads, washes, fields, or canyon edges.
The goal is not to get the most people moving. The goal is to get the best information without pushing the dog.
Build a calmer search plan
- Map sightings by time so you can see direction and pattern.
- Use cameras near credible repeat sightings instead of sending people into the area repeatedly.
- Place flyers where drivers, walkers, and neighbors will actually see them.
- Coordinate with shelters, animal control, vets, and local lost pet groups.
- Consider trapping help if the dog is seen often but will not approach people.
When a thermal drone can help
A drone can be useful when the dog may be in terrain that is slow or unsafe to check on foot: open fields, trails, washes, hillsides, large properties, or canyon edges. It can cover ground without sending a crowd into the search area.
It still needs a realistic starting point. If the last sighting is old or the dog may be anywhere in several square miles, the first step is usually better sighting collection.
Related lost dog help
Ask if a drone search makes sense
Call or text 909 784 5240. Send the last known location, sighting history, terrain type, and a clear photo. We will tell you if a thermal drone is a reasonable next step.