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Help Center/Browsing Pets/Cross-Organization Pet Search

Cross-Organization Pet Search

Cross-organization pet search allows you to discover pets from partner shelters and rescues across the LBC network, all in one unified view. This feature breaks down the barriers between individual organizations so you can find the right pet regardless of which shelter is currently housing them.

Accessing Cross-Org Search

Navigate to /pets/cross-org from the LBC navigation menu. This page shows pets from all organizations in the LBC network that have opted into cross-org discovery.

Unlike the standard pet directory (which defaults to your local area), cross-org search displays results from across the entire partner network, making it ideal for:

  • Looking for specific breeds or types not available locally
  • Finding pets in regions where transport is feasible
  • Discovering new partner organizations you haven't encountered before

How Cross-Org Discovery Works

The cross-org search is powered by LBC's shared pet index. When organizations join LBC, their publicly listed pets are automatically eligible for cross-org discovery unless the organization opts out.

The search works through AI-powered matching that considers:

  • Pet attributes — Species, breed, age, size, and special needs
  • Description similarity — Semantic matching of personality traits and behavioral notes
  • Location relevance — Distance from your search location
  • Organization relationships — Partner networks and transport connections

Filtering Cross-Org Results

Cross-org results can be filtered using the same filter panel available in the standard directory:

Core Filters

  • Species — Dogs, Cats, or Other
  • Breed — Filter by specific breeds
  • Age — Baby, Young, Adult, or Senior
  • Gender — Male or Female
  • Size — Small through Extra Large
  • — City, state, or zip code with adjustable radius
Location

Cross-Org Specific Filters

Additional filters unique to cross-org search:

  • Organization Type — Municipal shelter, private rescue, foster-based network, sanctuary
  • Transport Available — Filter to pets whose organizations offer transport assistance
  • Foster-to-Adopt — Organizations that support foster-to-adopt arrangements
  • Partner Network — Filter by established transport or transfer networks

Applying to Pets at Other Organizations

When you find a pet through cross-org search, the application process works slightly differently:

  1. Click Apply to Adopt on the pet's detail page
  2. The adoption application is submitted to the pet's home organization
  3. The organization reviews your application as they would any other
  4. If approved, you'll coordinate directly with them on next steps

Transport Considerations

If the pet is not located near you:

  • Check if the organization offers transport assistance
  • Look for Transport Available badges on pet cards
  • You may need to arrange your own transport or work with transport volunteers
  • LBC's transport coordination tools can help if the organization participates

Cross-Org Discovery on Pet Detail Pages

When viewing an individual pet's detail page, the Cross-Org Search Results section shows similar pets from other organizations. This is shown when:

  • The current pet's status changes to Pending or Adopted
  • You're browsing outside your home organization
  • The cross-org system has identified highly compatible matches

Benefits of Cross-Org Search

  • Larger selection — Access pets from hundreds of organizations, not just one
  • Better matches — Don't settle for what's local; find the perfect fit
  • Network awareness — Discover new organizations and rescues
  • Transport-enabled — Many organizations can help get the pet to you

Tips for Cross-Org Adoption

  • Use the Transport Available filter to find pets that can be delivered to your area
  • Read the full pet description — cross-org pets may have different application requirements
  • Contact the organization first if you have questions about their adoption process
  • Be prepared for longer wait times if transport is needed
  • Check organization reviews and ratings if available

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