Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) is introducing a new community resource that helps reunite lost pets with their families. The interactive Lost & Found Pet Map, is now live on the website www.sbcanimalservices.org/lostfound.
The user-friendly tool allows residents to report and search for lost, found or sighted pets directly on the interactive map. Hosted by Petco Love Lost, and integrated with the Nextdoor app, the map provides real-time updates and lets users zoom in on their neighborhoods to view reports in their area.
“This map puts the power in the hands of our community,” said Sarah Aguilar, Animal Services director. “We’re making it easier than ever for neighbors to help each other and for lost pets to find their way home.”
Pet owners and finders can choose whether or not to display their contact information, making it easy to connect while still respecting privacy.
By providing a shared platform for the community, this tool increases the chances of pets being safely and quickly reunited with their families, without needing to enter the shelter system, according to the SBCAS.
“We know that one-in-three pets goes missing in their lifetime. That’s an estimated 10 million pets each year, and we’re not okay with that,” said Susanne Kogut, Petco Love president.
“That gives us 10 million reasons why we created Petco Love Lost, because we believe nothing is more important than keeping people and pets together for a lifetime of love,” she said. “Together with SBCAS, our goal is to unite to reunite and keep pets where they belong — at home, with you.”
To view or submit a lost or found pet report, visit www.sbcanimalservices.org/lostfound.