Sabi Returns After 14 Months in the Desert

Do you remember the story of Sabi?

In September, 2008, a patrol of Australian, US and Afghan units was ambushed by Taliban militants in the Uruzgan province. A gun fight ensued, leaving nine injured and one dog missing in action (MIA).
Sabi, an Australian Special Forces explosives detection dog vanished amidst the gunfire not to be seen for close to 14 months, despite repeated search attempts.
The black Labrador was rediscovered, however, in November 2009 by an American solder in north-eastern Uruzgan.
Judging by her health, it was assumed that locals had been caring for Sabi. It may never be known, however, what happened to Sabi in the period between her disappearance and her rediscovery.
Sabi's return brought a great amount of relief and closure, particularly to those closest to her. Her handler, Corporal David Simpson, who was also wounded in the ambush, had reportedly never given up hope. Her survival and safe recovery was a terrific morale booster for the troops who knew her.

Click on the video below to see more of Sabi.





Sabi's story is miraculous, but by no means unique. Dogs have been known to wander off, run away and return months later for no apparent reason. In our book, WAR DOGS, Shane mentions a similar occurrence. Daisy, a sniffer dog attached to some Canadian forces, escapes into the desert after hearing one too many explosions. Months later, Daisy returned of her own accord, lean, hungry but alive and demanding to be let back in the base she had run away from.

How she survived is anyone's guess. Like Sabi, Daisy's adventure will probably remain a mystery.