'Profound sadness': Community mourns death of Petsearchers Canada founder
Condolences are pouring in for Al MacLellan, founder of Petsearchers Canada, who passed away late last week.
Pet lovers across B.C. are sharing their tributes to MacLellan’s legacy of reuniting thousands of lost and stolen pets with their loving families.
According to Petsearcher’s official statement on social media, MacLellan was “a force of nature fueled by passion, determination, and an unwavering love for animals.”
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“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and Pet Finder extraordinaire, Al MacLellan,” said Petsearchers Canada. “Al passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 14, 2025 — exactly where he wanted to be — surrounded by love.
“We know this news will bring deep sorrow to many, as Al touched the lives of so many people and animals across B.C. We have been forever grateful for your support over the years. Please share your memories and stories — Al’s legacy is not just in the lives he saved, but in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Al MacLellan (Petsearchers Canada)
MacLellan founded Petsearchers Canada over 15 years ago after a search for his lost dog made him realize how many families went through the same frantic and heartbreaking experience.
The Surrey-based company uses high-tech surveillance and capture equipment like thermal drones and infrared live streaming camera surveillance to help reunite more than 2,000 lost pets ranging from dogs, cows, cats and even turtles.
Some of Petsearchers Canada’s success stories include finding Faith the dog along the shore of the Capilano River after she was missing for 19 days and tracking down Suki the rescue dog after she was spooked and ran away.
Petsearchers Canada/Facebook
Many took to social media to share their memories of MacLellan and thank him and Petsearchers Canada for all of their hard work.
“Al was a wonderful and kind-hearted man,” said one commenter. “I will never forget the stories he told of his searches and how proud he was to share the stories of finding someone’s lost pet and the reunions. His smile was always so big and his eyes lit up when he got to share a success story. He was truly dedicated to what he did and the hours of work he put in and the numerous animals he found further proved that.”
“We are so very sad to hear that Al has passed and our hearts, empathy and sympathy are with all of his family and friends during this time of loss,” added another. “Al and Petsearchers touched our hearts here by reuniting our dog with us a few years ago. We will never forget his dedication and passion for the hard work he did. He will be greatly missed but will share a part of our hearts going forward.”
Petsearchers Canada
MacLellan’s work with Petsearchers Canada lives on through his son Parker, as well as through the entire team.
“For Parker, losing both his father and his lifelong pet-searching partner has been devastating, but he is committed to carrying on Al’s legacy with the same heart, skill, and relentless dedication,” added Petsearchers Canada. “Parker has worked alongside his dad for years, and together, they had big plans for the future and evolution of Petsearchers Canada.
“Over the past months, Parker has been leading the team, ensuring seamless operations, while his mom, Alesha, continues to provide unwavering support behind the scenes. In his final days, Al found comfort in knowing that his life’s work was in the best hands and that his vision will live on.”