Reunited owners of dachshund Valerie share stunning update
The sausage dog was welcomed home by owners Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock after spending 529 days lost on South Australia's Kangaroo Island.
'Valerie has spent almost half her life missing, so to be able to celebrate this birthday with her at home is everything to us,' Ms Gardner said.
'We didn't get to celebrate her second birthday as she was still missing.
'But this year, we're making up for it with a little family party with all the pets together at home, FaceTime with our parents, lots of cuddles, new toys and of course, dog-friendly birthday cake and a puppuccino or two!'
International media attention descended on South Australia to cover Valerie's miracle rescue story, but now the dachshund is settling into a new lifestyle in Albury, NSW.
The sausage dog has been busy appearing as a 'celebrity guest' at the local RSPCA's Million Paws Walk, 'welcome home' gifts are being sent to the pooch from across the country, and Hollywood has come knocking.
'If you had told me a year ago that we'd get Valerie home and everyone would want to know about it, my head would have exploded,' Ms Gardner said.
'We're getting movie and book inquiries and messages from the New York Times, The Washington Post and BBC. I'm from a small town of 800 people and Valerie is my little dog.
'If those book and movie projects happen, I'd be absolutely gobsmacked!'
The dog has even found time to pick up some employment. Valerie was recently appointed as an 'ambassador' for The Paws Room – a company that makes designer pet furniture.
In her role, the dachshund has already started showing off the products, recently pictured in a wooden crate designed to calm pets.
'We knew Valerie would initially need a safe and calming space to rest and readjust,' Ms Gardner said.
The dog is getting reintroduced to the creature comforts brought from domestication, enjoying puppuccinos and regular walks.
'Valerie is cheeky, bold and full of personality. And after everything she's been through, she deserves a safe space and all the treats in the world,' Ms Gardner said.
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