Valerie The Wiener Dog’s Incredible 18-Month Survival Tale!

Quick Smiles:

• Valerie the wiener dog survived 18 months in the wild on Kangaroo Island.
• Her owners, Josh and Georgia, are preparing to reunite with her after a long search.
• Valerie’s survival instincts helped her navigate threats like venomous snakes and eagles.

On the picturesque Kangaroo Island, just south of Adelaide, an unlikely tale of resilience has unfolded. A small wiener dog named Valerie, known for her floppy ears and elongated body, captured the attention of locals and visitors alike.

Her journey began in 2023, when owners Josh Fishlock and Georgia Gardner took her on a camping trip. Valerie, a pampered miniature dachshund accustomed to cozy sweaters and toys, was left in her cage while the couple went fishing.

In a surprising turn of events, Valerie managed to escape, darting into the bush when approached by fellow campers. “We spent the next five days searching for her through the bushland, hiking up and down big hills and camping overnight,” Georgia shared.

Despite their efforts, Josh and Georgia had to return to Albury, leaving behind their hopes of finding Valerie. The island, home to dangerous wildlife like black tiger snakes and wedge-tailed eagles, seemed an unforgiving place for the tiny dog.

Yet, Valerie’s survival instincts proved remarkable. Reports surfaced in a local Facebook group that she had been spotted nine miles from her original campsite. Georgia reached out to Jared Karran, a local police officer and wildlife rescuer, who set up cameras and bait to locate her.

Valerie was eventually seen, alive and well, showcasing her resourcefulness. A tour operator speculated that roadkill served as her primary food source, while eagles posed the greatest threat.

Karran remains cautious about trapping her, hoping instead to awaken her domesticated instincts. Meanwhile, Josh and Georgia are readying themselves for a 13-hour drive back to Kangaroo Island. “We’re just waiting to see what condition she’s in and whether she’s still domesticated,” Georgia said. “It’s all pretty overwhelming. I just want to give her a big hug.”

This incredible story of survival is a testament to Valerie’s tenacity and the enduring bond between pets and their humans.

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