Valerie the Lost Sausage Dog: A Kangaroo Island Survival Story That Captured the Nation!

Valerie the Lost Sausage Dog: A Kangaroo Island Survival Story That Captured the Nation

At Emu Ridge, we love a good story, especially one that shows the incredible heart and resilience of our little island. And lately, no story has touched more hearts than that of Valerie, the miniature sausage dog who went missing on Kangaroo Island and miraculously survived in the wild for over 500 days.

Back in November 2023, while holidaying with her humans, Georgia and Josh, Valerie disappeared out of her pen near Stokes Bay. Despite days of searching and countless calls, she vanished without a trace. Her devastated owners returned home to New South Wales, all hope was lost. Then months later sightings we happening and the story of this tiny dachshund began to spread.

We’ve been following Valerie’s journey closely at Emu Ridge, and many of our visitors asked about her too! We even shared two updates on our social media to help spread the word:

🐾 “Have you heard or been following the amazing story about Valerie the little dog that has been missing for over 500 days? Well, they are getting very close to capturing her, how exciting! You can follow her story on Kangala Wildlife Rescue. Let’s hope they get her very soon!”

And then the wonderful news…

🐾 “VALERIE the little sausage dog has finally been captured! 🩷🐾 Follow these guys to continue her amazing journey. Well done Kangala Wildlife Rescue, what dedication! ❤️”

Image credit The Advertiser

It was thanks and well done to Kangala Wildlife Rescue, Lisa, Jarad and team for their incredible dedication that Valerie was eventually captured in April 2025, a full 529 days after she disappeared! After alot of work they were eventually able to lure her in safely. To everyone’s amazement, Valerie was in good health, even a bit chubbier than before, having survived on natural water sources and scavenged food, lizards, beetles road kill whatever she could find.

The reunion between Valerie and her owners was tearful, joyful, and deeply emotional, and we couldn’t be happier for them. It was truly amazing how quick she settled back to human life after being isolated all that time! Her story has since been shared across news networks around the world, putting Kangaroo Island in the spotlight, not just for its natural beauty and unique wildlife, but for its community spirit and heart.

Here at Emu Ridge, we’re often reminded that it’s stories like this, of perseverance, love, and a deep connection to the land, that make Kangaroo Island so special. Valerie’s journey is a beautiful reminder of what makes this place truly magical. What a story!!!