How an Arizona Teen Is Using Drones and Thermal Imaging to Reunite Lost Pets With Their Families
When was the last time a news story truly made you smile? Meet Maxence Pastore—a name that resonates with innovation, hope for pet owners, and the remarkable power of drone technology. At just 18, this teenager from Mesa, Arizona, has become a local icon, not with a cape but with a high-tech drone and a mission to bring lost pets back to their families.
From Lost Cat Flyer to Lifesaver: The Birth of TRACC Pet Recovery
Two years ago, Maxence didn’t just pass by a ‘missing cat’ flyer; he saw an opportunity. In 2022, inspired by his passion for aviation, he discovered he needed an FAA Part 107 commercial drone license for any non-recreational use. “Fast forward two years,” he recounts, “I got my Part 107 license, and I saved up for a more capable drone, and that’s how I started my business,” he says, filled with pride.
TRACC Pet Recovery was thus born with a clear mission: assist families in finding their lost pets using drones and expertise.
Why Drones? Why Thermal Imaging? The Science Behind the Search
Arizona summers can be brutal, with temperatures surpassing 100°F (38°C). Daytime searches can be dangerous, but with his DJI Matrice 30T equipped with advanced thermal imaging, Maxence has a powerful ally.
- Thermal Cameras: These devices detect heat signatures, highlighting hidden animals in dense brush or under structures, even in darkness.
- Maxence’s night searches capitalize on the cooling ground, making warm animals pop on his drone screen.
“This drone excels at finding animals at night,” Maxence explains. “During the day it’s too hot, but at night, any warm movement shows up.” Within minutes, he can search vast areas that would take days on foot, crucial in Arizona’s expanses.
Real-Life Rescues: Stories That Inspire
His success stories are as heartwarming as they are dramatic.
- At the Salt River, his drone detected a missing cat’s heat signature just before a coyote could attack, saving the pet from a near-tragedy.
- During Fourth of July celebrations, when fireworks send pets fleeing, TRACC was on call, ensuring lost pets were reunited promptly.
“Owners get super emotional once their lost pet is found,” Maxence notes, his voice full of empathy.
How Does a Drone Search Work? Step-By-Step with TRACC Pet Recovery
- Initial Contact & Assessment: Maxence collects details from pet owners about last locations and sightings.
- Pre-Search Planning: He analyzes maps, terrain, and ensures his DJI Matrice 30T is ready, usually scheduling searches post-sunset.
- Drone Launch & Thermal Sweep: Flying at 200–400 feet, he scans vast areas, watching for heat signs on his controller.
- Zoom, Confirm, Recover: Once a heat source is identified, closer inspection confirms if it’s the missing pet, then ground recovery follows.
- Celebration & Safety Advice: Maxence advises on pet care and safety, emphasizing collars and microchipping.
The Technology: Why the DJI Matrice 30T?
Drones have evolved beyond toys. The DJI Matrice 30T, with its high-resolution thermal and visual cameras, long flight range, and real-time feed, mirrors what’s used in public safety operations, like missing person searches and disaster responses. Maxence’s innovative use for pet recovery exemplifies its versatility.
Dogged Determination: Training, Licensing, and Building Trust
Maxence, a Mesa Fire Cadet graduate, combines his aviation passion with public service. He aspires to join official search and rescue teams. Passing the FAA’s Part 107 exam ensures he complies with safety regulations and professional standards.
In an industry fraught with scams, Maxence recommends:
- Be cautious of upfront payments online.
- Skepticism on camera resolutions and angles beyond FAA rules.
- Always verify business authenticity and licenses.
Why It Matters: The Pet Problem in Arizona
Throughout the year, but especially on holidays like July Fourth, lost pets are frequent. On one July night alone, over 60 dogs were reported missing in Maricopa County.
- Expert Tips: Microchip pets, keep them indoors during loud events, and share recovery stories for community support.
The Human Side: Building a Trustworthy Rescue Brand
TRACC Pet Recovery stands out not just for its technology but for Maxence’s personal touch. He’s not anonymous but a trusted local hero. His approach, combined with his real experience, has fostered widespread appreciation across Arizona’s community and social media.
The Bigger Picture: Drones, Community, and the Future of Search
From a hobby to a field-changing endeavor, drones like the Matrice 30T extend beyond pet rescue to shape public safety, real estate, and agricultural sectors. Young entrepreneurs like Maxence are driving this transformation.
Advice for Future Drone Pilots: Study and earn the Part 107, start with small-scale projects, and remember the importance of privacy and safety.
A Final Thought: Hope in the Skies
In the vastness of Arizona’s deserts, pets can vanish quickly, but with determination, technology, and a community spirit, Maxence Pastore shows that help can indeed descend from the skies.
If you or someone you know loses a pet, remember TRACC Pet Recovery and the inspiring story of Maxence. Sometimes, all that’s needed is hope and a great drone.
“Drones bring us together in new ways, and sometimes, they bring our pets home.”
