Valerie, a miniature dachshund who went missing from her owners, Josh and Georgia, on Kangaroo Island 529 days ago, has been found safe and sound. The little dog was discovered last night after being trapped by volunteers from Kangaroo Island Wildlife Rescue.
Valerie disappeared while her owners were enjoying a holiday on the island in 2023. After a long search, including a failed attempt to lure her into a cage equipped with her toys and clothing, hope was renewed when Valerie was finally secured. On April 15, she was seen on video entering a specially prepared trap, although she managed to escape when the trap door could not be closed remotely.
Upon the announcement of her rescue, the wildlife group expressed their joy, stating, “After weeks of tireless efforts by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organisations, Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well.” They conveyed their excitement that Valerie could soon reunite with her beloved family.
This heartwarming rescue showcases the dedication and collaborative spirit of the Kangala Wildlife Rescue team, alongside strong community support. The group acknowledged the challenges faced during the search but expressed profound gratitude to everyone involved in bringing Valerie home.
Valerie’s case has captured hearts far beyond Australia, with her story reaching international audiences through newspapers and social media platforms, drawing comments from around the world including New Zealand, the Netherlands, and the United States.
Currently, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue team is taking a moment to celebrate this remarkable outcome and regroup after their intense efforts to ensure Valerie was safely returned to her family.