As Valerie is reunited with her owner, her journey takes an unexpected turn, emerging healthier and more vibrant than ever in the wild surroundings of Kangaroo Island.
She drew international interest after being found 529 days post-disappearance on the South Australian island.
Interestingly, while Valerie had previously weighed 4kg, she was only 1.8kg lighter when discovered—this raised some questions about her survival.
Her owners, Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock from Albury, New South Wales, had brought her along during a holiday in November 2023. Unfortunately, the little dachshund managed to escape her enclosure in Stokes Bay.
They were thrilled to see her again on Tuesday.
Gardner mentioned that Valerie struggled to fit into her old harness but was making “happy noises” and displaying obvious joy.
“She’s a stocky little dog now, strong and in great health… perhaps even healthier than us,” she noted.
Kangara Wildlife Rescue, which found Valerie in March and later took her in, announced on social media Tuesday night that veterinarians confirmed she was “in perfect health.”
According to Kangara director Jared Curran, given Valerie’s small size, it’s remarkable that she not only survived but thrived.
Some locals speculate that someone may have been feeding her, yet Lisa Curran from Kangara suggested that animals like possums and feral cats could have played a role in her survival.
Kangaroo Island is currently combatting an overpopulation of feral cats that threaten local wildlife, including endangered species.
After spotting Valerie multiple times on a camera set by Kangara, she was safely trapped using a cage with a remote trigger on April 25.
Since her rescue, videos have shown her happily playing with toys and cuddling with the Kangara staff.
However, observers have commented on her surprisingly healthy appearance, particularly for a dog that’s spent time in such a rugged environment filled with aggressive predators.
Kangaroo Island Mayor Michael Pengilly remarked that the story has brought positive attention to the island, yet he suspects Valerie may have been cared for during her time away from her owners.
“Most of the people I’ve talked to feel that someone must have been feeding her for her to make it this long,” he said.
There’s speculation that she might have fed on roadkill or other animals’ waste and drank from freshwater sources.
While both Kangara and her owners have been hesitant to engage with the media and didn’t respond to inquiries, they expressed concerns about privacy violations due to photographs taken without permission.
Gardner and Fishlock expressed joy at reuniting with their “Princess,” noting that she seemed more open to interaction and even offered kisses and hugs.
Experts and locals had previously worried that a year of freedom might turn Valerie wild or negatively affect the island’s wildlife.
Pengilly pointed out that behavioral changes suggested some people had likely been trying to locate her during her time away.
Some social media users voiced skepticism, suggesting that the attention might be more about fundraising than genuine care.
Kangara responded by asserting that while the world can be harsh, most individuals still aspire to do what’s right.
Gardner commented that Kangara had invested significant effort into Valerie’s care, prioritizing her wellbeing over publicity.
The organization refrained from disclosing how much they’ve raised in donations.
Donors have historically shown generosity toward Kangaroo Island; previously, they helped cover substantial shortfalls after the fires there.
People have also questioned why there was a delay in reuniting Valerie with her family.
Kangara explained that the owners needed some time to adjust after the emotional reunion.
Now, they affirm that Valerie is in excellent condition and poised to embark on the next chapter of her life.
She will be reunited with her companions: her feline friend Lucy, Red Healer Mason, and the family’s new dachshund, Dorothy. Gardner mentioned plans to train Valerie in crate habits and transition her to a raw food diet, given her surprising health status upon rescue.
