A miniature dachshund named Valerie survived 529 days lost in the harsh Australian bush, shocking animal lovers and wildlife experts alike. After vanishing during a camping trip on Kangaroo Island, this pint-sized canine evaded predators and extreme weather, finally lured home by a shirt that smelled like her owner.

Valerie’s tale rewrites the record books for pet perseverance—few would bet on a miniature dachshund surviving 529 days alone in the wild Australian outback, let alone on Kangaroo Island. Against dingoes, scorching sun, and time itself, loyalty and scent brought her home.