We can assume that many are familiar with the devastating Australian fires that occurred between September 2019 and March 2020, severely impacting the nation’s biodiversity. Notably, the deaths in New South Wales were particularly distressing.

The preceding year’s drought and fires serve as clear signs of Australia’s changing climate, with floods and fires wreaking havoc on farmers’ livelihoods and causing millions of dollars in damages. Amid this crisis, defoliation-causing insects further harmed Australian wildlife, with approximately 60,000 koalas losing their lives. However, thanks to the efforts of firefighters, volunteers, and a remarkable dog named Bear, many koalas were spared.

Bear, the dog credited with extinguishing Australia’s Blacksmith bushfires, played a crucial role in saving nearly a hundred koalas. Trained specifically for koalas through a collaboration with detection dogs for conservation at USC and IFAW, Bear’s abilities proved invaluable in locating and assisting the endangered species.

Dogs like Bear are powerful allies in conservation efforts, significantly reducing time and effort in collecting data on species in need. Bear’s story gained attention, leading to the creation of his Instagram account to share information about their work with IFAW, wildlife rescue organizations, research, and daily life.

Bear’s owner described him as goofy and cheeky, with a love for play and an enthusiastic focus on collecting toys. Despite lacking self-confidence, Bear showcased his passion for life, especially in the field. Additionally, he has a peculiar love for the smell of pizza.

The concept for Bear’s Instagram account emerged due to the online interest in his story, providing a platform to share joy amid the tragedy caused by the bushfires. Hilariously, Bear once knocked someone off their stool during an interview while intensely focused on chasing a ball.

Bear’s owner appreciates his character, comparing him to Sid from Ice Age and referencing him as “Dobby White Walker” for his intense concentration. Bear’s unique training makes him the only dog in Australia capable of finding koalas by sniffing out their fur and feces.

Bear received recognition for his exceptional work, earning the Special Recognition Award from the International Foundation for Animal Welfare in the UK. The six-year-old Australian koolie even earned a gold medal for his amazing actions. His dedication to saving koalas is evident in the protective shoes he wears while investigating fire-ravaged areas.

In recognition of Bear’s hard work, many koalas were saved, and additional pets and playtime served as a well-deserved reward for this remarkable dog.