Meet Karli
On August 15th, a tiny joey named Karli arrived at Amaris, weighing just 821 grams. Her story began tragically when her mother was killed in a hit and run accident in Munglinup, leaving Karli vulnerable on the side of the road. Fortunately, she was taken in by Lynn from Esperance Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation. Unfortunately , ravens had already begun to attack her, causing serious damage to her tail.
At the time, I wasn't prepared for another joey— Kenny and Katie had just returned home after being critically ill. However, Karli needed someone with wound care experience, so I welcomed her to Amaris as a new buddy for Kenny and Katie. Having spent 40 weeks taking care of Bandit through two tail breaks and osteomyelitis, with the unwavering support of Claire from Karlup Animal Sanctuary and vet nurse Alice, I felt somewhat qualified. With bandage changes up to four times a week, strapping, splints, and bandaging for Bandit, I knew I could help Karli, especially with Claire and Alice by my side.
There was a discussion around whether to amputate the tip of her tail or let it heal and drop off naturally. After a vet visit, it was decided to let her heal on her own. She was only a baby and still 100% in her pouch. Ten weeks later, her bandaging and strapping are off! Karli has been so good through it all and is now enjoying the freedom of hopping around without a heavy bandage.
Karli’s wounds, healing over time. With specialised care we didn’t need to amputate. A kangaroo tail provides significant balance, mobility and is used in communication too, so this was a fantastic outcome.
Karli is a very affectionate girl, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to care for her and support her recovery. A huge thank you to my wound care heroes, Claire and Alice, for your support and advice, and for analyzing the daily, then weekly photos and offering advice and changes to enable a complete recovery.
In November 2024, during hoon time in the pen, Karli faceplanted in the sand. A quick trip to the vet confirmed no permanent damage, and she came back home with eye antibiotics, seemingly on the mend.
On March 10, 2025, I found Karli’s lifeless body in the pen. She was still warm—it must have just happened. I had seen her happy and healthy only minutes earlier. Now, I’m left with so many unanswered questions and relentless "what ifs."
I am utterly shattered. This loss feels unbearable. Rest in peace, my beautiful baby girl. You will always be loved. 💔
Karli and I had been through so much together. I nursed her through her tail saga, and it healed beautifully. There was the early morning vet visit for tummy troubles—possibly constipation or gas—and the scare when her eyes swelled up so badly after the faceplant. Another vet visit then, just to ensure there were no ulcers. Each time, I poured my heart into her care, doing everything I could to help her heal.
She was Katie’s buddy, her best friend, and such a vital part of our lives. And now, she’s gone.
I can’t stop asking myself: What did I do wrong? How can I do better? Do I keep going? This is just too hard. Right now, I am numb. The tears keep flowing for my beautiful Karli girl. I loved her, I nurtured her, and I cherished every moment with her.
Rest in peace, sweet Karli. You’ll always hold a special place in my heart. 💔
