When Josh and Georgia headed out for a peaceful beach camping trip to Kangaroo Island off the coast of Australia, they brought their beloved miniature Dachshund, Valerie, along for the adventure. Weighing less than nine pounds and sporting a tiny pink collar, Valerie wasn’t just a dog—she was family.

But during their stay near the remote area of Stokes Bay in November 2023, Valerie was startled by a group of strangers and took off into the wild. Despite frantic searches by Josh, Georgia, and local volunteers, Valerie was gone. Heartbroken, the couple eventually had to leave the island without her.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. With no sign of their little dog, it seemed impossible she could have survived alone in the wilderness.

Then, in early 2025—over a year later—hope sparked back to life. Multiple people reported spotting a small dog wearing a pink collar nearly 10 miles from where Valerie had disappeared. Trail cameras confirmed the unbelievable: Valerie was alive.

With the help of Kangala Wildlife Rescue, Josh and Georgia launched a careful effort to bring her home. They set up food stations, laid scent trails, and placed humane traps—but Valerie remained elusive. That is, until day 540. After a year and a half on her own, Valerie finally stepped into a trap. She was underweight but alive—and when she laid eyes on her owners, the reunion was pure emotion.

Now safe and sound, Valerie is recovering with all the love, cuddles, and comfort she could ask for. Her incredible survival story is more than just about beating the odds—it’s a moving reminder of resilience, the deep connection we share with our pets, and what’s possible when you never stop believing.