How does tracking work?

Our tracking dogs follow a specific odor from a missing person or pet in the air or on the ground starting at the “point of loss.” Our dogs can identify the direction of travel and the area in which the missing person or pet has been, and can even determine if they were removed from the area. Check out some of Penny's previous practice tracks here.  

How much do tracking services cost?

***IF YOUR LOVED ONE IS MISSING, IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY LOCAL POLICE.***

Once you have a police report initiated, ask them to call The Sniff Squad or reach out to us directly. Families are never charged fees for missing persons tracking services, learn more on our Missing Persons page. 

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Learn more about our pet tracking services, our fees and what is included with your track, including any possible additional fees that may be assessed due to travel here. 

My pet is missing... how do I schedule Track?

All pet tracking services begin with completion of our Tracking Inquiry Form.  You must complete that form to begin any/all services with The Sniff Squad as there is certain information that helps the Tracker determine what type of service you may or may not need.

Do you find our pet while on the Track?

We don’t tend to come across your pet on a Track due to animals constantly moving out of survival and being in flight mode. It is also possible that your pet may have found a place to hunker down, so there is the possibility of coming across their hiding spot. ​

If we do happen upon your pet during the track, make sure to get low, stay calm and be quiet. Allow your pet to recognize a familiar scent and for them to approach on their own.

ALL of my pets use my scent article... 

As long as all of your pets didn't leave the yard, we are still good to track using a communal pet item as long as you didn't walk your other animals in that area.  If there is a confirmed sighting, picture or owner's report, we can track from the sighting. 

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If you have multiple pets missing, then we can chat about finding dedicated scent articles for each missing pet.

It's been raining, can you still track my pet?

Yes, we can! Rain does not negatively impact odor, and damp ground can actually enhance odor. 

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My pet just went missing, why won't you come out?

When pets first go missing, during those first 24-48 hours, they are typically in flight mode. They tend to be moving, to prevent being prey, and they are actually attempting to make their way home. This is a state of mind similar to us and adrenaline. Most Trackers will wait until they feel your Pet is out of flight mode before beginning a Track to increase their chances of success. 

Someone just saw my pet, what should I do?

You should get to that location as soon as possible, taking food and treats with you!  

Your pet is probably stressed, so make sure to get low to the ground, be quiet and stay calm. Talk in conversational tones, allow your pet to cue in on the familiar tone, give your pet a chance to smell you. When you see your pet recognizes you, remain calm until they are safe in your arms.