Don Schwass is a leading expert in dog tracking, known for locating countless missing people and pets since joining Land Search and Rescue at 16. His reputation soared after he found a missing labrador in just four hours—five days after it disappeared. In 2023, he successfully tracked Ace, a dog lost after a road accident near Lewis Pass, a case that drew national attention. Don’s method blends environmental awareness with deep insight into animal behaviour, using subtle signs like movement patterns and feeding habits. Despite his expertise, he works voluntarily, providing phone support to hundreds of families and reuniting them with their pets. For Don, the real reward is keeping families together.

President of AWAMO Nigel Allsopp presented a Commendation Certificate to Don and his dog Banksi, a NZ Police bred labrador donated to him.

Along with the recognition award a first to recognize both the work of his dogs and himself, Nigel also presented Don with a K9 First aid kit and military grade Binos to assist his future work.