In Mesa, Arizona, 18-year-old Maxence Pastore is turning his passion for drones into a lifeline for pet owners, using advanced thermal imaging to locate lost animals. Operating under his FAA Part 107 commercial drone license, Pastore’s business, TRACC Pet Recovery, has already reunited several families with their furry companions, showcasing how drone technology is revolutionizing pet search and rescue, according to Fox 10 Phoenix.
From Hobby to Hero: Launching TRACC Pet Recovery
Pastore’s journey began in 2022 when he spotted a missing cat flyer and wanted to help but lacked the required commercial license for non-recreational drone use.
“Fast forward two years, I get my Part 107 license and I save up to get a more capable drone and that’s how I started my business,” Pastore said.
His persistence paid off with the DJI Matrice 30T, a high-end drone equipped with a thermal camera, enabling him to scan for heat signatures of cats and dogs, especially during cooler nighttime hours when daytime temperatures in Arizona often exceed 100°F.
Thermal Imaging: A Game-Changer for Night Searches
The Matrice 30T’s thermal imaging capabilities allow Pastore to detect animals hidden in brush or darkness, covering areas up to several acres quickly.
“This drone does an amazing job of finding animals at night. I don’t normally do my searches during the day because it’s so hot,” Pastore explained.
By flying at altitudes of around 200–400 feet, he identifies heat signatures that stand out against cooler surroundings, pinpointing pets with precision. This technology, commonly used by fire departments and police for search and rescue, gives Pastore an edge in navigating challenging terrains like Arizona’s desert landscapes.
Community Impact and Seasonal Demand
Pastore’s work is particularly vital during events like the Fourth of July, when fireworks often spook pets into fleeing.
“Once they realize that their dog has been found, or cat, they just, they get super emotional, and of course happy,” he said, describing the joy of reuniting families.
As a Mesa Fire Cadet graduate, Pastore combines his community service ethos with aviation expertise, offering year-round searches across the Phoenix Valley. His business model focuses on sighting services, providing pet owners with coordinates to retrieve their animals, though he tracks pets until owners arrive.
Navigating Challenges: Scammers and Age Limits
Despite his success, Pastore faces hurdles. Scammers posing as drone operators undermine legitimate businesses like his, often demanding upfront online payments or claiming unrealistic drone capabilities, such as flying at extreme heights where thermal imaging becomes ineffective.
Pastore advises caution, urging pet owners to verify services through credible websites or reviews. Additionally, his age restricts him from joining professional search and rescue groups. “I actually applied for some search and rescue groups, but I’m too young,” he noted, though he aspires to expand into human search missions once eligible.
Industry Trends and Future Potential
Pastore’s work highlights a growing niche for drones in civilian applications. The global drone services market, valued at approximately $6.3 billion in 2024, is projected to grow as thermal imaging and FAA-compliant operators like Pastore expand use cases.
His DJI Matrice 30T, costing around $8,000, represents a significant investment but underscores the affordability of drones compared to traditional search methods like helicopters. Regulatory frameworks, such as FAA Part 107 licensing, ensure safe operations, though night flight waivers, which Pastore holds, remain critical for pet recovery missions.
Pastore’s innovative approach not only saves pets but also sets a precedent for young entrepreneurs in the drone industry. As he plans to broaden his services, his story illustrates how technology, passion, and community spirit can converge to make a tangible difference.
You can read more stories about Drones for Good here on DroneXL.
Photos courtesy of TRACC Pet Recovery.
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