05/23/2026
A reminder for anyone considering hiring a thermal drone company to help locate a lost pet:
Please take a little time to research who you hire and ask questions before making a decision. Thermal drones can be an incredible tool, but successful lost pet rescue is about much more than simply owning a drone.
Every situation is different, and factors like weather, terrain, time of day, animal behavior, and the pet’s emotional state all play a major role in whether a thermal search is likely to be effective. One of the biggest things experience teaches you is knowing WHEN NOT to fly.
For example, searching for a small dog during the middle of a bright sunny day is often very ineffective with thermal imaging. The ground, rocks, brush, roofs, sidewalks, and surrounding environment all absorb and hold heat, creating countless competing heat signatures. Experienced thermal operators understand this and typically avoid those conditions unless there is a very specific reason to fly.
Recently, we spoke with a family who had already hired another drone company. After discussing the situation with them, we honestly felt a drone search was not the best next step at that moment. Instead, we helped guide them through a trapping and rescue plan, provided resources, and thankfully their dog was safely back home shortly afterward.
That’s something we believe is important to share:
A thermal drone is just ONE tool in the lost pet rescue process.
Sometimes a drone search is exactly what’s needed. Other times, behavior knowledge, trapping strategy, cameras, flyers, community outreach, or patience are the better solution. An experienced rescue team should be able to help guide you through all of those possibilities — not just fly a drone for an hour and leave.
We also believe collaboration matters. Over the years, we’ve built relationships with other reputable drone pilots who have real-world lost pet rescue experience, along with local rescue groups and trappers. No one person has all the answers in every situation, and having a strong network of experienced people can make a huge difference when trying to safely bring a pet home.
Some good questions to ask before hiring a rescue service:
• Are you FAA licensed and insured?
• What search conditions do you prefer for thermal work?
• How much experience do you have with lost pet rescues specifically?
• What happens if the pet is not located during the flight?
• Can you assist with trapping or connect us with additional rescue resources if needed?
We know how emotional and overwhelming it is when a pet goes missing. Families are often scared, exhausted, and desperate for help. That’s why we believe honesty, realistic expectations, and compassionate guidance matter just as much as the equipment itself.
At the end of the day, the goal is simply to help bring pets home safely.
