Miniature Dachshund Found Alive After 529 Days in Australian Wilderness

Valerie, a miniature dachshund who went missing on Kangaroo Island, Australia, in November 2023, has been found alive after 529 days. The dog disappeared during a camping trip, prompting her owners and volunteers to launch an extensive search across the island, which is known for its challenging terrain and dangerous wildlife. Despite the odds, dedicated efforts—including the deployment of cameras, traps, and scent trails using her owner's clothing—eventually led to Valerie's safe rescue by Kangala Wildlife Rescue. Volunteers invested over 1,000 hours and traveled more than 5,000 kilometers in their quest to find her. Valerie's remarkable survival and reunion with her owners have captured international attention and brought relief to her family and supporters. The rescue team reported that Valerie is healthy and beginning her transition back to her home.