Nelson dog Piper, who helped reunite countless lost pets with their families across New Zealand, has passed away.
Piper’s owner, well known dog tracker Don Schwass, shared a heartfelt tribute to his loyal companion, remembering her as a partner, a friend, and a hero to many.
“You were always about the journey and not the destination. This is not goodbye, just part of your journey,” Schwass wrote. “My side kick, my shadow always right by my side. Together as partners that’s how we rode.”
Piper was described as vivacious and sassy, happiest riding in the truck or flying in a plane with Schwass by her side.
In her final days she fought bravely, even receiving a blood transfusion in the hope of gaining more time.
“That night we set up camp, like many times before, but this time in the lounge. Sleeping bag and pillows, we spent the night reminiscing together of things we had done. Many tears were shed. One last sunrise, and it was time. I looked into those beautiful brown eyes one more time. You’ve more than earned your angel wings,” Schwass said.
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Piper’s story
Piper was a three-and-a-half-year-old Springador, a cross between a Labrador and Springer Spaniel.
She was the fourth generation of a line carefully bred by Schwass, beginning with her great grandmother Libby, who was put to another working dog named Baxter.
From the start, Piper showed promise. At just 12 months old she completed her first successful mission, known as Operation Midnight.
A dog called Midnight had been missing for eight days on a 270-hectare property, evading search parties and technology.
After Schwass narrowed down the search area, Piper was deployed and found the missing dog within two and a half hours.
That first mission marked the beginning of an extraordinary career.
In only a few years, Piper was involved in numerous operations across the country, including Operation Ja Ja and Binks, Operation Ace, Operation Premo, Operation Blossom, Operation Puke, Operation Toby, Operation Fred, Operation Evie, Operation Fi, and Operation Pippa and Bruce.
Her skill and determination made her an essential part of search teams, giving families hope and often delivering the joy of reunion.
A legacy of love and service
Piper’s extraordinary instincts made her a vital partner in searches for missing pets, often leading to emotional reunions between owners and their beloved dogs.
Families across the country turned to Schwass and Piper when hope was running out, and time and again she delivered.
Her legacy is one of devotion and service, not only to her owner but to strangers across New Zealand who will never forget the joy of being reunited with their pets because of her.
Schwass’s words sum up the bond they shared and the legacy she leaves: “You were never meant to retire or grow old.
You fought so hard and so brave right to the end. Love you forever.”
