Valerie, the dachshund who went missing while camping in Australia, has been successfully rescued after 529 days in the wilderness. Kangala Wildlife Rescue's team utilized a scent trail from her owner's t-shirt and extensive searching methods to locate her.
Lost Dachshund Survives 529 Days in Australian Wilderness, Reunited with Owners
Lost Dachshund Survives 529 Days in Australian Wilderness, Reunited with Owners
A miniature dachshund named Valerie was found alive after over a year in the wild, thanks to a dedicated rescue effort.
A miniature dachshund, named Valerie, has been miraculously found alive after spending an astounding 529 days in the Australian wilderness. The rescue of the beloved pet unfolded on Kangaroo Island, following an intense search effort by the Kangala Wildlife Rescue organization. Valerie disappeared during a camping trip in November 2022, when her owners, Georgia Gardner and Joshua Fishlock, temporarily left her in a playpen while they fished.
Valerie's survival in the harsh environment, evading intense heat and dangerous wildlife, came to a hopeful conclusion when rescuers utilized a scent trail created from Ms. Gardner's t-shirt. After weeks of relentless searching and dedication from volunteers, Valerie was finally rescued. A social media update from Kangala Wildlife Rescue celebrated her safe recovery, stating that she is fit and healthy.
The rescue mission comprised over 1,000 hours of searching and extensive coverage of over 5,000 kilometers (3,109 miles). Utilizing surveillance cameras and a specially designed trap filled with food, the clothes of her owner, and some of Valerie's toys, the team worked tirelessly to bring her home. Lisa Karran, a director at Kangala, explains that as soon as Valerie was found, she wore remnants of Ms. Gardner's clothing to comfort her dog until she calmed down.
Initially, Valerie was spotted by fellow campers hiding under a parked car, which caused her to flee into the bushland. Later sightings of a pink collar similar to Valerie's gave the rescuers renewed hope. Mr. Karran admitted that Valerie's survival was a surprise, as they had worried about her safety in the wilderness.
A 15-minute video on social media narrates the ups and downs of the rescue effort, showcasing the patience required in capturing this spirited dog. Ms. Gardner expressed her gratitude after Valerie's rescue, encouraging others who have lost pets to remain hopeful, stating that "good things happen to good people."
