Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny pet mystery with brave kids, villains, and peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Pet Investigators
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In PET INVESTIGATORS, dogs start disappearing around town, so three kids team up to solve the mystery. Olivia (Gabriella Sophia Terrero) is a serious, helpful girl who dreams of being a police officer like her dad. Gabe (Peyton Jackson) has a secret soft spot for animals, and new kid in town Jayden (Joseph Y. Lee) brings the tech and brains. Together, the unlikely trio uncovers a group of clumsy crooks—and something much bigger than they expected. This fun story about friendship and courage shows what can happen when kids stand up for their neighbors and furry friends.
Is It Any Good?
Pet Investigators is a campy but fun adventure with heart. It's a familiar story, a little like Harriet the Spy or Scooby-Doo, with silly villains, cool gadgets, and clever twists that keep things moving. While we know who the pet thieves are early on, the identity of their mysterious boss stays secret until the end, giving the story a surprise reveal that adds to the excitement.
The plot is a bit far-fetched, but that's part of the charm. The young cast is likable and diverse, and a cameo from Sean Astin adds an extra bit of fun for adults watching with their kids. Some of the humor is clearly thrown in for grown-ups, but most of it is goofy and easy to enjoy. While not a deep mystery, Pet Investigators offers an entertaining ride for kids who enjoy spy stories, teamwork, and pups.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Olivia wants to be a police officer like her dad. How does she act like a leader in the movie? What traits does she show?
Gabe starts off acting like a bully. How does his character change over time?
What made the team work well together—and what caused problems?
How did the movie emphasize character strengths such as empathy, courage, and teamwork?
The kids get into some dangerous situations. What could they have done differently?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : July 29, 2025
- Cast : Gabriella Sophia Terrero , Peyton Jackson , Joseph Y. Lee
- Director : Brent Ryan Green
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , African American Movie Actor(s) , Multiracial Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Shout! Studios
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy , Teamwork
- Run time : 89 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some rude material, thematic material and mild violence
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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