cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/28754203

The 8-pound dog went missing on the rugged Kangaroo Island in Australia in November 2023 while on vacation with her owners. After a 529-day search, the pup is finally safe and back in human care.

“After weeks of tireless efforts by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organizations, Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well. We are absolutely thrilled and deeply relieved that Valerie is finally safe and able to begin her transition back to her loving parents, Josh and Georgia.”

You can read more HERE.

    • ToastedRavioli@midwest.socialEnglish
      15·
      23 hours ago

      On an island with ample food sources it really isn’t all that crazy, compared to the many things I have heard of dogs surviving.

      There was a dog that got lost on Saint Lawrence Island in the winter, which apparently crossed the sea ice all the way to Wales, AK over 160 miles away. I think they believe the dog managed to catch and eat birds along the way, as there was quite literally nothing else he could have eaten.

      That is quite insane. I cant imagine how I would survive on foot trying to make it 160 miles away, let alone if that entire 160 miles was just barren ice

      • kratoz29@lemm.eeEnglish
        3·
        21 hours ago

        I don’t question the dog hunting abilities, but really there is not a predator in Australia that could have taken the dog in that time frame? I am more impressed about that.

        • JBeamo@lemm.eeEnglish
          3·
          14 hours ago

          On kangaroo island, not really. Maybe a tiger snake, but they’re generally not too aggressive unless provoked.