Missing Animal Response Services (MARS)

Missing Animal Response Services include a variety of specialized techniques and equipment similar to those used to locate missing people on Search and Rescue missions. These services were developed by Kat Albrecht, the pioneer of the Pet Detective field. The staff, human and K9, of LocateMyPet.net, were personally trained and continue to improve our skills with Kat personally.

Behavior Profiling: We use knowledge of typical lost animal behavior to determine a likely route of escape and direction of travel. For example, an indoor, shy and scared cat is likely to hide and stay for days or weeks in the same spot very close to the point last seen (PLS). A large, outgoing dog, however, is more likely to travel farther and/or be picked up by strangers.

Giant Fluorescent Posters: Using a variety of sturdy, weatherproof materials, signs approx. 2 X 2.5 feet are made with large, easy to read lettering made at a professional print shop. We use large color photos of the missing animal, either originals or high-quality color copies. Flyers are then placed in waterproof plastic sheeting. Signs are then placed strategically in high-traffic areas from a radius determined by the lost animal's profile, from a few blocks to a couple miles.

Search and Rescue Dog: Petey, our 18-month-old Black Lab, is a natural at locating lost animals. Training started with run-away games where Petey took a person's worn clothing, then located them at distances farther and farther away. We then moved to locating animal scents and moving them along a trail, so far with dogs, cats, rabbits, and ducks. We continue to train at more advanced levels.

Petey has made friends and played at length with ferrets, rats, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks, rabbits, turtles and tortoises, small birds, macaws, miniature and regular horses, sheep, goats, and snakes. He tenderly grooms three-week-old kittens with Mama just two feet away!

Bionic Ear (Amplified Listening Device): This tool is used to enhance faint sounds that a trapped or frightened animal may make while hiding under a deck, trapped in a shed, stuck up in a tree, etc. This is used in areas that are too tight or too far back to be seen with the naked eye or a flashlight.

Magnet Dog: A magnet dog is used when a lost dog is within view but too frightened to come up to people, even to their own family. Petey has frequently served as a Magnet dog. This works well with other animals who are comfortable around dogs as well.

Snappy Snare: This is a long, flexible tool that catches a dog within five to ten feet of the search team. This can be used either with or without a magnet dog.

Cat Traps and Baby Monitors: Cat traps are used for those who are thought to be on or near their family's property or have been spotted in another location. We set up covered, humane traps baited with tuna, salmon, or the cat's favorite treat and provide instruction on how to most effectively use them. Baby monitors are used so the family can listen for the cat during the night and bring him or her inside right away.

Dog Traps: Dog traps are used with dogs who are known or thought to be in the general area of Point Last Seen or who have been sighted in another place. Again, we provide detailed instruction.