Bear has hung up his work harness, but the succession is assured; his congener Oaka is now ready to succeed him in the role of conservation detection dog.
We had talked about Bear in a previous article. This Border Collie / Koolie cross had participated in the rescue during the “black summer” in Australia, marked by terrible forest fires. He found more than 100 koalas alive, which were brought to safety and cared for thanks to him.
IFAW
Trained to sniff out koalas and other wildlife in distress during natural disasters, he was part of a team working with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), before taking a well-deserved retirement in March 2026 at the age of 11.
The challenge of finding Bear's worthy successor
In May, theIFAW was looking for a successor for Bear. The mission was anything but simple. “ To become a koala detection dog, you must bring together a set of very specific qualities: a highly developed play instinct, no predatory instinct and unfailing determination.can we read on the organization website. We were also specifically looking for a dog from a shelter, to offer him a new chance in life and a forever home, in addition to his new job “.
The IFAW received around fifty applications from across Australia. One of them was even sent from South Carolina, in the United States. Of these dogs, 13 were pre-selected and subjected to a series of tests carried out in collaboration with Innovation for Conservation and the French cynotechnic expert and trainer Frédéric Chappée.
Oaka, the perfect candidate
One of these canines stood out from the crowd. Or rather one, since it is a female. Oakaa 2-year-old Koolie, made a strong impression. Just like Bearshe found herself in a refuge, that of DM Rescue has Coffs Harborin New South Wales, because her family could not “manage” her.
IFAW
She caught the eye of local dog trainer Avery Kellerwho detected interesting qualities in her and informed the IFAW. Alongside the professional, Oaka traveled 5 hours to go to Queensland to take part in the tests which she passed brilliantly.
Within theIFAWeveryone was impressed by his skills and delighted to have found the rare gem.
A new mission for Oaka
Oaka officially joined the team as a koala detection dog and is currently training with the trainer Russell Miller And Frédéric Chappée.
She will soon be able to participate in her first missions and follow in the footsteps of her illustrious predecessor.
Woopets info: who is the Koolie, this Australian shepherd dog little known elsewhere?
Originally from Australia, the Koolie is a working dog selected for its herding skills. Agile, enduring and particularly intelligent, he is distinguished by his great capacity for learning and his energy. Its appearance can be quite variable, with different coats and lengths of hair depending on the individual.
Very close to its human, the Koolie is generally attentive, responsive and voluntary. Its significant needs for physical activity and mental stimulation make it a companion more suited to active people.
Please note that Koolie is not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The breed nevertheless remains followed by specialized associations, particularly in Australia, where its qualities as a working dog are particularly valued.