Kangaroo Island, SA – After 529 days lost in the Australian bush, a dachshund named Valerie has been miraculously reunited with her owners on Kangaroo Island. The remarkable rescue, detailed in tonightS Australian Story episode, captivated locals and ultimately required a dedicated team effort to bring the beloved pet home.
georgia and Joshua,Valerie’s owners,were devastated when their dog disappeared in may 2022. They feared the worst, but a steadfast group of Kangaroo Island residents refused to give up hope.Valerie survived for over a year and a half foraging for food and reportedly befriending possums, before being spotted and eventually trapped. “Its a miracle,” the couple said, acknowledging the unwavering commitment of the local community was crucial to Valerie’s return.
Valerie has settled back into domestic life “surprisingly well,” according to her owners, happily reconnecting with her canine companion, Mason, a red heeler, and feline friend, Lucy. The couple even adopted a dachshund puppy, Dorothy, after Valerie went missing – not as a replacement, but “a positive way for us to keep the memories alive of Valerie.”
The rescue involved numerous sightings, carefully laid traps, and the dedication of volunteers who spent countless hours searching for the missing dog. Locals reported Valerie appeared surprisingly healthy despite her ordeal.
Dog Gone: The Hunt for Valerie airs tonight at 8:00pm (AEDT) on ABCTV and ABC iview. The program features footage of Valerie’s reunion and interviews with those involved in the extraordinary search.
