When your dog goes missing, your first instincts can often make the situation worse. At Eye In The Sky, we've helped reunite hundreds of lost dogs and have seen the same five mistakes time and time again—from chasing your dog to assuming they've travelled miles away. In this article, we explain why these common reactions can hinder a search and what you should do instead to give your dog the best possible chance of getting home safely.

Warm weather increases the risk of dogs going missing more than most owners realise. Changes in routine, open doors and windows, new walking locations like coastal paths, and increased stimulation all create opportunities for dogs to slip away unnoticed. Understanding these small seasonal changes can help prevent incidents before they happen and keep your dog safe.

When a dog goes missing, panic often leads owners to make decisions that unintentionally make the situation worse. Shouting, chasing, and sending out large search groups can push a frightened dog further away. The first 1–3 hours are critical, and having a calm, informed plan can make all the difference. Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.

As a drone pilot involved in search and rescue, I’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable advantages that thermal drones bring to the...