How drones are revolutionizing the search for lost pets
One Southern California city is using a $17,000 drone that utilizes lasers and thermal imaging to pinpoint animal heat signatures over large areas.
In Southern California's Orange County, a lost terrier was found using a drone in a matter of minutes. The drone, equipped with lasers and thermal imaging, spotted the small dog in a carpool lane and guided ground units to its location.
This marks a significant shift from traditional lost pet searches, which once took days or weeks. Kyle Werner, an animal control officer for Mission Viejo, shared that the drone transformed their approach, moving from passive waiting to active searching.
The technology was instrumental in another rescue involving a dog named Lana. Senior officer JR Stewart explained that dense brush had obscured the dog's whereabouts, making visual detection impossible. However, the drone was able to identify the dog's heat signature and direct Stewart to its location.
The drone also played a crucial role in a search last year for a skittish dog named Josie, whose owner was able to find her more easily with the drone's assistance. The owner's calm demeanor allowed the dog to approach her, resulting in a touching reunion captured on camera.
The drone, costing nearly $17,000, was funded through private donations. Werner expressed his belief that the investment was invaluable, stating that the technology has already garnered interest from other agencies. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is reuniting lost pets with their families, a process he regards as priceless.
Written by urgent.news from CBS News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
