Finding Rover app uses facial recognition to find lost pets

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Facial recognition technology used by the FBI and other law enforcement agencies is now being used to track lost pets.

A new app can now help pet owners search through a smart phone or computer. John Polimeno, CEO of the app Finding Rover, said people can upload a photo of a lost or found dog along with some key information. Then a database will conduct a facial recognition to help find the animal's location or its owner.

The app uses similar technology used for human facial recognition and pinpoints certain characteristics on the animal's face.

Polimeno partnered with the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles and VCA Animal Hospitals to unveil the free app.

In a couple of weeks, the Finding Rover app will also include cats in its service.