An Australian shepherd credited with saving more than 100 koalas is retiring after a decade of service. Bear, an 11-year-old Australian Koolie, was one of the first dogs in the country trained to sniff out koala fur. The International Fund for Animal Welfare has described the use of dogs to detect koalas as an 'innovative approach'. In a statement, IFAW Program Manager Josie Sharad said that Bear 'literally went from chewing the walls of an apartment on the Gold Coast to roaming the Australian bush on a mission to save this iconic, high-priority species'. Thanks to his skills, Bear saved over 100 koalas during the devastating bushfires that ravaged Australia's east coast in late 2019 and early 2020, which scorched millions of hectares, destroyed thousands of homes, and blanketed cities in toxic smoke. This dog, known for his fun-loving and friendly personality, is retiring after a stellar career that earned him the 'Animal of the Year' award and 'Best Australian Dog' from 'Puppy Tales Photos' magazine. Bear also starred in the documentary 'Bear: Koala Hero' and the book 'Bear on a Rescue Mission'. Bear will spend his retirement on the Sunshine Coast with one of his former trainers, where he will receive special care and have plenty of space to play.
