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Pinellas County Animal Services using AI to identify pets
The department integrated the platform on its website around two months ago.
National chain Petco doesn’t only sell supplies for four-legged companions. The organization created an independent nonprofit partner that develops and supports animal welfare programs.
This includes Petco Love Lost – an artificial intelligence software that helps owners find their missing pets. Pinellas County Animal Services integrated the platform on its Found Center website page around two months ago.
People who find lost dogs and cats can upload pictures of the animals to the free service. Owners can do the same.
Individuals are encouraged to provide details about the pet including where it was lost or found and if it has any unique characteristics. These can include different colored eyes, extra toes or a specific mark or spot.
The software then scans the photo for the identifiers through data collected nationwide.
“We’re always looking for more tools to put in our toolkit to help pets get home first and foremost,” Pinellas County Animal Services director Jennifer Renner said. “The shelter is obviously a very stressful environment.”
The platform, she added, has already had a major impact.
According to statistics, the dog reunion rate has been around 40% in Pinellas County. Nationally, it is much lower. With the implementation of Petco Love Lost, the rate increased to 50%.
Renner said that the software constantly updates and cross references photos.
“As soon as our officers pick up a pet out in the field, they take a picture and upload it to our website. That’s updated in real-time and goes right to the Petco Love Lost integration and starts looking for matches immediately,” she explained. “If our officers get an alert, they can go ahead and reunite the pet with the family in the field before bringing it to the shelter.”
Renner compared the platform to a “Google” search for pets.
She said that it’s important to include current pictures of the lost or found animals. Additionally, owners should ensure their companions have an up-to-date microchip with their address as well as a collar with identification.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, an estimated 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the country annually.
“This has been quite the revelation to be able to use AI to this level and already see success,” Renner added. “I’m hoping that we fine-tune this even more so that pets can be reunited right out there in the field more often.”
To learn more about Petco Love Lost, visit this link.
