Manatee County launches interactive pet database to find lost animals

Manatee County launched an interactive, map-based database that lets residents report and view exact locations of lost or found pets, and officials say microchipping remains a reliable form of identification.

Manatee County has launched an interactive database that maps reported lost and found pets. The system, developed with 24-Hour Pet Connect, went live at the start of the year. Community reports go to Animal Welfare staff, who add sightings to a map showing exact pinpoints, animal icons, and photos. The tool is available at mymanatee.org under "lost pets". Key details: - The county partnered with 24-Hour Pet Connect to build the database, which became active earlier this year. - Reports from residents are reviewed by Animal Welfare employees and placed on an interactive map with exact pinpoints, animal-type icons, and optional photos. - The map can be accessed on mymanatee.org by searching for "lost pets." - Officials say microchipping is the most reliable form of identification; QR codes and collar tags are mentioned as lower-cost options but can detach. - Last year Manatee County Animal Welfare returned almost 700 pets to owners, and officials expect it may increase return numbers this year with the new tool. Summary: The database is intended to speed up reunions by sharing precise sighting information with the community. Officials expect it may increase the number of pets returned to owners; specific plans are undetermined at this time.