The directors of the Kangala Wildlife Rescue have shared the emotional moment they broke news of the miniature dachshund safe rescue to her owners.
Valerie went missing on Kangaroo Island, off the mainland of South Australia, southwest of Adelaide 529 days ago, while her owners were holidaying there.
She was finally caught in a cage set up by Kangala Wildlife Rescue this week filled with her toys and clothing from her owners
“After weeks of tireless efforts by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organisations Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well,” they said in a social media post.
“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.”
They said the rescue was a true testament to the dedication and perseverance of their team, the unwavering support of the community, and the power of collaboration.
“There were many challenging moments over the past month, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing Valerie home.”
The search for Valerie involved over 1000 volunteer hours and more than 5000 km travelled by volunteers in their private vehicles, the deployment and monitoring of numerous cameras and traps and the use of various forms of technology to successfully secure Valerie while ensuring her physical and psychological welfare.
In a video on Facebook Kangala directors and rescue volunteers, Jared and Lisa shared the moment they managed to rescue Valerie with their owners, Josh and Georgia who were “over the moon.”
“The phone call was pretty special, it a bit surreal that we were able to call, and say guess what”
“They were just so excited, there were tears”
They said Josh and Georgia were amazing people who had supported them every step of the way.
Meanwhile the famous dachshund is expected to stay with Jared and Lisa for a week or so to decompress and chill after her ordeal.
Her overjoyed owners would then travel to collect her.
“We are looking forward to handing their little miss over to them”
