Frequently Asked Questions About Bloodhound Tracking

Can the bloodhounds track in rain or snow?

Yes! Contrary to popular belief, rain and snow often enhance a scent trail rather than hinder it. Moisture causes skin flakes (dander) and scent particles to settle onto the ground more effectively. In heavy rain, scent is typically driven deeper into the vegetation and soil, where it can persist longer.

Additionally, damp air and humidity support a bloodhound’s tracking ability, making it easier for their sensitive noses to detect scent compared to hot, dry, or dusty conditions. Snow, being both porous and moist, can also hold scent very well. In cold temperatures, time becomes critical, making prompt action even more essential to ensure the safety of your pet.

My pet has been missing for a long time. Will your dog still be able to find scent?

In many cases, yes. While scent trails typically remain viable for up to 72 hours depending on environmental factors, our bloodhounds have successfully picked up scent trails that were 2–4 weeks old.

Our team follows proven protocols designed to detect both fresh and aged scent. Even if your pet has been missing for an extended period, they are still producing scent wherever they currently are. Our trackers will work systematically to locate that fresh scent using the most effective scent-tracking breed in the world.

Why can’t I follow the tracker and bloodhound during the search?

There are two main reasons:

1. Scent contamination: As the pet owner, your scent may be present on your clothes, shoes, and body. This can confuse the bloodhound and interfere with its ability to stay focused on your pet’s scent trail.

2. Distraction: Our bloodhounds are friendly and highly social. Having someone they’re not trained to work with nearby can distract them, reducing the effectiveness of the search. To ensure the highest level of focus and success, our handlers work alone with the hounds.

Will the bloodhound follow the scent directly to my lost pet?

It’s possible, and it does happen. However, the primary goal of a scent track is to determine where your pet has recently been—whether that’s a specific direction of travel, a regular sleeping spot, or an area of activity.

This information allows us to set humane traps or deploy cameras and other equipment in strategic locations. Often, tracking helps us pinpoint a target area where your pet can be safely recovered.

Can you guarantee that you’ll find my lost pet?

We cannot guarantee recovery—but we can guarantee that we’ll give it everything we’ve got.

There are variables beyond anyone’s control—such as weather, traffic, predators, or theft—that can impact the outcome of a search. What we can promise is that we’ll search for your pet with the same commitment and care as we would for our own. With a long history of successful recoveries, Petsearchers offers the best possible chance for your pet to be found and brought home safely.

Why won’t my pet come to me?

Read about the following info on Survival Mode.

Don’t hesitate to ask any other questions!