MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) — Pet lovers know there’s no worse feeling than a missing furry family member. That’s why Marion County Animal Services is stepping up with a new, community-powered effort to bring more lost pets home.

Marion County is one of just 25 shelters nationwide chosen for Network Neighbors, a pilot project launched by Best Friends Animal Society and supported by Petco Love Lost. The initiative empowers everyday residents to help reunite lost pets with their families — often before they ever reach a shelter.

Volunteers are placing bilingual yard signs across local neighborhoods where data shows a high number of missing dogs. The signs feature a QR code linking to Petco Love Lost, a free online tool that uses facial recognition to match found pets with their owners.

With nearly 10 million pets lost in the U.S. each year, and 70% of lost dogs found within a mile of home, officials say Marion County’s participation in the pilot project could be a game-changer for pet recovery.

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