PetFinderNetwork.org · TailTracker Lost Pet Finder Network
Sighting Intake · Command Center · Field Response

The Sighting Flow: From “I think I saw that dog” to Verified Mission Intel

This page walks through what happens after someone reports a possible sighting. Every step is designed to protect pets, families, and Finders while turning chaotic tips into coordinated, objective action.

High-Level Flow

A sighting moves through three main lanes: Reporter, Command Console, and Field Finders. Only credible, location-ready sightings become deployment orders.

Visual Overview

1
Sighting is submitted
A member of the public, pet owner, or Finder submits a sighting through TailTracker (web, mobile, or QR-coded poster).
Required fields: photo (if safe), time, approximate location, behavior, and reporter contact.
2
Automatic mission matching
The system attempts to match the sighting to any active missions within a radius, using species, color, size, and location.
If it doesn’t match, the sighting is flagged for manual review before any action is taken.
3
Command Console triage
A trained Console Operator reviews the sighting for credibility, safety, and alignment with Behavioral GPS predictions.
Sightings may be tagged as high priority, monitor, or no action.
4
Map + ring placement
Verified sightings are placed on the mission map and compared with dynamic search rings. This helps identify likely travel corridors and safe staging areas.
The console updates the mission’s “last credible sighting” and recalculates guidance.
5
Deployment to Finders (if warranted)
Only when a sighting is credible and safe does the console issue assignments to Level II+ Finders in the appropriate zone.
Finders receive clear instructions: where to stage, what to observe, and strict “do not chase” rules.
6
Outcome + feedback loop
Field teams report back: confirmed, negative search, moved, or safety concern. The console logs outcomes and adjusts the recovery plan.
Reporters can receive status updates when their sighting contributed to a mission.
Want to help process sightings or run missions from the Command Console?
Join the Finder Network Take Level II Core Training