In a remarkable tale of resilience and never giving up, Valerie, the dachshund, was recently found after 529 days of wandering the wilds of Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This small dog, lost in November 2023 while her owners were vacationing at Stokes Bay, became a symbol of determination and hope. Despite her owners’ tireless efforts and the dedicated work of local volunteers, Valerie survived against all odds in the island’s challenging terrain. The heartwarming news story was shared by 7News Australia.
How Did Valerie Survive?
After escaping her pen, Valerie ran into the scrub, a thick and often inhospitable environment. The island, about six times the size of Singapore, is home to a wide range of wildlife and harsh conditions. For over a year, Valerie evaded capture, despite multiple sightings and an extensive search effort that spanned thousands of kilometers. It’s believed she relied on natural instincts to survive, dodging predators like snakes and eagles while navigating the island’s rugged landscape.
A Heartwarming Rescue
The breakthrough came when wildlife rescue volunteers, armed with surveillance and traps, finally caught Valerie in late April 2025. Volunteers from Kangala Wildlife Rescue had spent countless hours—over 1,000 in total—trying to track her down. The rescue effort involved setting up surveillance cameras and using a trap with a remote-controlled door. The trap was baited with food, along with clothing from Ms. Gardner and Valerie’s toys, to help attract the dog, and a scent-trail was created using scraps of a T-shirt worn by Ms. Gardner.
The relief was palpable when she was found in good health, still wearing her pink collar. Her owners, Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock, were overjoyed at the news, marking the end of a long and emotional ordeal.
Lessons Learned
Valerie’s survival teaches us a few valuable lessons. First, it highlights the extraordinary resilience of animals, even in the face of adversity. Valerie’s ability to stay alive on the island for more than a year is a testament to her survival skills and adaptability. Second, the story emphasizes the importance of never giving up—both for Valerie’s owners and the volunteers who refused to stop searching, no matter how long it took.
In a world often filled with difficult news, Valerie’s story is a refreshing reminder of the power of hope, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners.
Final Thoughts
Valerie’s saga is one for the books, a heartwarming reminder that with determination and a little luck, the unthinkable is possible. Her journey not only brought joy to her family but also captivated hearts worldwide, showing that sometimes, the best stories are those of survival against all odds.
