Dachshund Defies Odds: Found Alive After 529 Days on Australia’s Wild Kangaroo Island

 In November 2023, a miniature dachshund named Valerie escaped from her owners’ campsite on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, sparking a 529-day saga that captured global attention. The tiny 4kg dog, sporting a pink collar, roamed an island teeming with kangaroos, koalas, possums, penguins, and threats like snakes and feral cats. Despite her pampered nature, Valerie survived, likely scavenging roadkill and dam water.

Kangala Wildlife Rescue led a relentless search, logging over 1,000 volunteer hours and 5,000km of travel. Initial sightings were scarce, and many feared she’d perished. But in March 2025, grainy footage confirmed she was alive, prompting an intensified effort. Rescuers set up a sophisticated trap—a crate with toys, blankets, and a remote-controlled door—lured by strips of a T-shirt worn by her owner, Georgia Gardner. After weeks of patience, Valerie wandered in, and the door snapped shut on April 25, 2025.

Valerie’s owners, Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock, were “over the moon.” The dog, remarkably fit, is decompressing before reuniting with them. Her survival stunned experts, with her small size and dachshund tenacity—bred for hunting dangerous prey—likely key. Kangala’s Jared and Lisa Karran hailed the rescue as a testament to community perseverance, though some online grumbled about the effort for “just a dog.” Others celebrated, with global followers from Perth to Japan shedding “happy tears.” Kangaroo Island’s rugged terrain, six times Singapore’s size, made the feat extraordinary.

Missing sausage dog Valerie found after 529 days at large | Today Show Australia