Helping lost dogs find their way home
Through our Dorwest Foundation, we’re proud to be supporting Eye In The Sky Drones - a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to reuniting lost dogs with their families.
Founded by HM Forces Veteran Dave Rimmer, Eye In The Sky uses specialist drones fitted with thermal cameras to search for missing dogs across Dorset, Hampshire and beyond. With their experience and compassion, they’ve helped bring countless dogs safely home, even in the most challenging conditions. Whether it's woodlands, fields or cliff tops, their team of volunteers are ready to help, seven days a week.
Sadly, many dogs go missing during fireworks season. The loud bangs and bright flashes can unsettle even the calmest of dogs, making them panic and run — whether their in own garden or out on a walk. That’s why organisations like Eye In The Sky are so vital at this time of year, giving owners peace of mind that expert help is available if their dog runs off in panic.
One of Dave’s success stories made national headlines when Teddy, a 9-year-old Cavapoo, went missing for five days after being spooked by a loud noise. Despite foggy conditions and challenging terrain, Dave launched the thermal drone and located Teddy within just four minutes of flight time. He found Teddy curled up in a ball near a river, with local farmers lending a hand to put him on a lead. Moments later, Teddy was safely reunited with his relieved owners.
“It is the best feeling in the world when you can reunite a dog with their owner!” - Founder, Dave Rimmer
With fireworks season approaching, it’s important for owners to take precautions to prepare , from walking earlier in the day to avoid bangs at night to ensuring dogs wear secure collars and tags. But if the worst does happen and your dog goes missing, Eye In The Sky can make all the difference in bringing them back home quickly and safely.
What to do if your dog goes missing:
Losing a dog is incredibly stressful, but taking quick and calm action can make all the difference. Here are some top tips to help:
- Stay calm and don’t chase: As hard as it is, chasing after your dog might make them run further. Try to stay calm and give them space to find their way back.
- Create a scent trail: Leave familiar items like your worn clothing or your dog’s bed outside — their brilliant noses can pick up the scent from quite a distance.
- Use technology: If your dog wears a GPS tracker on their collar or harness, check the app for their last known location. Devices like these can be incredibly helpful in narrowing down a search area.
- Get the word out: Put up posters and post on local social media groups. A clear photo and good description will help people know what to look out for.
- Speak to your vet and local shelters: Let local vets, animal shelters, and dog wardens know your dog is missing — they’re often the first point of contact if someone finds a stray.
- Check your microchip details: Make sure your dog’s microchip information is up to date and report them as missing to the database.
- Set up a feeding station: Leave out food, and familiar-smelling items near where your dog was last seen - it can encourage them to stay in the area.
- Ask for expert help: Don't be afraid to call in the professionals. Expert teams like Eye In The Sky have the right tools and know-how to give you the best chance of being reunited.
We’re delighted to help support Eye In The Sky and the amazing work they do — because every dog deserves to find their way home.
Be sure to check out their website and social media channels for the latest rescues @eyeinthesky_drones and www.eyeinskydrones.com. Plus, discover their top tips about what to do if you’re ever in this kind of situation on their blog www.eyeinskydrones.com/blog.
