Valerie, a miniature dachshund, has been lost for more than 500 days. She fled her enclosure on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, and continues to evade capture. Kangala Wildlife Rescue is currently very engaged with getting Valerie home. Her long absence continues to raise concern, as well as hope among her owners and the community.
Valerie’s story started when the runaway goat went missing from her pen, prompting a weeks long search that has both awed and mystified local residents. For the last 500 days, she has been consistently seen by the Kangala crew at one of her regular haunts. According to reports, Valerie has become increasingly confident with her movement around the site. Her rescue organization’s newfound confidence allowed them to develop strategies to coax her out of hiding.
Per Kangala Wildlife Rescue, Valerie has a habit of “disappearing” for five or six days at a time before she’s spotted again. This unpredictable behavior makes things difficult for the team, they’re determined to get her home. To lure Valerie out of her hiding spots, the rescue crew has been strategically placing food around the location. Recently, they noted her actively playing with an aquarium product box set out on her.
“Such a joy to see her playing and trying to get it open.” – Kangala Wildlife Rescue
Her rescue organization has constructed a trap to safely catch Valerie. They outfitted the shark with a remote trigger system to deploy it in the safest way possible. This extraordinary new system, purpose-built for Valerie’s unique condition, works through the mobile phone network—so while Valerie wears it, the team can monitor her remotely. Though the trap had been sprung earlier, Valerie was able to clear herself but narrowly avoided being trapped.
Kangala Wildlife Rescue has been hopeful about their recent changes to the trapping system.
“We are happy to report that after a few tests and modifications it looks like we have a system that will work.” – Kangala
Valerie’s safe haven has been established with intention. ArtNow’s team then designed a warm and inviting space, customized to her needs. It really does seem like “her own little room,” loaded with toys, her home bed, her owner’s clothes, secret goodies and engaging tasks to occupy her mind. By taking this mindful and deliberate approach, we’re doing everything we can to make sure she feels safe and comfortable while exploring the wonders of the wild.
Valerie is engaged in constant observation—phenomenal exploration. As soon as she starts playing with her smart food box her tail begins to wag with joy! This signal of relaxation should tell you that she’s becoming acclimated to her surroundings. The rescue team is using webcams linked to 4G technology to ensure they can monitor her 24/7.
Despite the challenges posed by Valerie’s prolonged absence, Kangala Wildlife Rescue remains dedicated to finding her and reuniting her with her family. The whole community has rallied around the area to aid in the search. They have been providing support while the rescue organization has worked through this complicated scenario.