After an extraordinary 529-day adventure, Valerie, a runaway miniature dachshund, has been safely captured on Australia’s Kangaroo Island, leaving the country in awe of her tenacity and survival skills. The tiny dog, who had been missing since November 2023, evaded rescue efforts and roamed the island, home to kangaroos, koalas, penguins, and other wildlife.
Valerie’s journey began during a camping trip with her owners, Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock. During the trip, Valerie dashed out of a pen and disappeared into the island’s vast wilderness, which spans over 4,400 square kilometers (1,700 square miles) of farmland, nature reserves, and rugged cliffs. Despite initial search efforts, her owners eventually gave up hope as days turned into weeks and weeks into months.
For over a year, Valerie remained unseen, with only occasional sightings captured on night-time cameras. Her elusive nature and fear of humans made her nearly impossible to catch. Yet, a community effort, fueled by a group of dedicated volunteers, reignited hope. Video footage and local sightings confirmed that Valerie was still alive, and a rescue operation was launched with patience and perseverance.
“We were absolutely thrilled and deeply relieved that Valerie is finally safe and able to begin her transition back to her loving parents,” Kangala Wildlife Rescue announced on social media, sharing a short video of the dog’s capture. The rescue team spent over 1,000 hours, driving more than 3,100 miles, to find the wandering dachshund.
Despite the many setbacks, the rescue team was determined to succeed. Valerie, who appeared to have learned to avoid people and vehicles, was finally trapped when a scent trail—comprising torn-up strips of her owner’s shirt—led her into a crate. The trap, carefully set by the rescue team, was designed to contain Valerie without alarming her. When the door finally closed, the rescue team celebrated their success.
“We couldn’t let this sausage dog escape again,” said Jared Karran, a director of Kangala Wildlife Rescue. Once Valerie was secured, the team made sure to comfort her in her crate, ensuring she was acclimatized to her new surroundings.
Back in civilization, Valerie was treated to her favorite foods, including roast chicken, and was reunited with her grateful owners. Gardner expressed deep gratitude for the volunteers’ unwavering commitment: “For anyone who’s ever lost a pet, your feelings are valid, and never give up hope,” she posted on social media.
Though small in stature, Valerie’s brave journey showcases the resilience and independence often associated with dachshunds, a breed known for their courage and determination. Valerie’s survival on Kangaroo Island has inspired many, reminding pet owners everywhere that hope and perseverance can lead to remarkable outcomes.
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