The App Reuniting Stolen Dogs With Their Owners Using Integrated Image Recognition
We developed the Smart Snout app using Agile methodology, adding secure SSL integration, image recognition, email reminders, and guest access features. Launched in July 2021 on both the App Store and Google Play, the app gained over 400 users quickly, received positive feedback, was featured on ITV, and partnered with local vet centres to help prevent dog theft.
The Client
Smart Snout is a UK-based startup founded by Bradley Watson and Phil James to help protect dogs from theft.
With a shared passion for animal welfare, they aimed to create a mobile app that uses biometric technology to reunite lost or stolen dogs with their owners.
The Challenge
Smart Snout was born out of the urgent need to address the growing problem of dog thefts in the UK, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The founders wanted to create a mobile application that could uniquely identify dogs using their nose prints—similar to how fingerprints identify humans.
The major challenge was to implement this innovative idea into a reliable, real-time system that was also user-friendly, secure, and accessible to a wide range of users.
Additionally, the app needed to support features like lost dog alerts, user registration, image matching, and communication between finders and owners, all while handling sensitive data with care.
The Solution
To bring this idea to life, Dotsquares adopted an Agile development approach for flexibility and fast delivery. We built a secure and scalable system using SSL encryption and version control tools like Git.
A state-of-the-art image recognition system was developed to scan and match dogs’ unique nose prints.
The app also included user registration and login features, an integrated email notification system to remind and update users, and guest access to allow non-subscribers to report found dogs without barriers.
The solution was designed to be simple for pet owners to use while maintaining robust back-end systems to manage the biometric data efficiently. The app was launched on both iOS and Android platforms for maximum reach.
The Results
Since its launch in July 2021, Smart Snout quickly gained traction, with over 400 users signing up within the first few months.
The app received strong user feedback for its unique concept and ease of use. It also attracted media attention, including coverage by ITV, helping raise awareness of dog theft prevention.
Smart Snout established partnerships with pet organisations like ALL PETS ALLOWED and local veterinary clinics to further its mission.
The inclusion of guest features helped broaden access and community involvement. Overall, the app successfully delivered on its goal to protect dogs and reconnect them with their families, establishing itself as a pioneering solution in pet safety.
Client Review:
“We approached Dotsquares easily in 2021. They have been nothing other than superb in every department from the development and customer service. We highly recommend them for any application or web development. Thank you Dotsquares!” – Bradley Watson
