Specialties

SkyScout Animal Search is a Central New York drone-based pet and livestock recovery service specializing in locating lost animals using state-of-the-art thermal imaging technology. Led by FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot Fred Ashby, our team uses advanced DJI Matrice 4T drones equipped with thermal and high-resolution cameras to search large areas quickly, safely and efficiently - especially during the first critical hours of the pet going missing. What makes us unique is our combination of cutting-edge technology, real-world search strategy and genuine compassion for both the animals and their owners. We understand the panic and heartbreak that comes with a missing pet, and we treat every search as if it was our own family animal. From wooded trails and farmland to neighborhoods and nighttime searches, SkyScout provides fast, professional aerial support designed to improve the chances of a safe reunion.

History

Established in 2026.

SkyScout Animal Search was founded in 2026 out of a passion for helping reunite lost pets with the families who love them. After seeing how many pet owners struggle during the critical first hours after an animal goes missing, we realized there was a need for a faster, more effective way to search large areas, especially at night or in difficult terrain. As lifelong animal lovers and drone enthusiasts, we combined our experience with advanced drone technology to create a service focused specifically on pet and livestock recovery. Using state-of-the-art thermal imaging drones, SkyScout Animal Search was built to provide a professional search option that many areas simply do not have. Founded by FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot Fred Ashby, with support from Kathy Ashby as Visual Observer and FAA TRUST Certified operator, SkyScout is committed to compassionate service, rapid response, and doing everything possible to help bring animals home safely.

Meet the Business Owner: Fred A.

Hello, and welcome to SkyScout Animal Search. I’m Fred Ashby, founder of SkyScout and an FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot. I started this business because I know how heartbreaking and stressful it is when a beloved pet goes missing. Pets are family, and every minute matters when trying to bring them home safely. Combining my passion for animals with advanced drone technology gave me the opportunity to help families during some of their most difficult moments. Using state-of-the-art thermal imaging drones, we can search large areas quickly and effectively, especially at night or in difficult terrain. What makes this work so rewarding is helping reunite lost pets and livestock with the people who love them. At SkyScout, every search is personal, and we treat your animals like they are our own.