Mr Dadd, 69, was found sheltering in a car on the island on August 11, after concerns had been raised about his well-being as flood waters engulfed the island, where a makeshift camp has been "home".

He was found barefooted and had somehow managed to wade his way through the rising floodwaters to higher ground, moving from tree to tree to try and stay out of the weather.

He now has a roof over his head, staying in a cabin at the Shoalhaven Caravan Village at Terara. By his side are two of his faithful companions over the last decade, his beloved Kelpies, brothers Odon and Ned.

Unfortunately, Roper, a 16-month-old "pup" remains "on the loose" on the island, however attempts have been made to capture the "escapee" and regular food drops have been made.

Mr Dadd spent four days in Shoalhaven District Hospital and is still recovering from his ordeal.

"I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis," he said.

"I've got no energy and am still a bit crippled up."

His swollen feet have returned to a "somewhat normal size".

"They still ache a lot," he said.

"Rheumatoid arthritis is an insidious thing - I never thought arthritis would be like this. I thought maybe a sore back, stiff neck - no, it affects a lot of things - it drains your energy, all you want to do is lay down.

"Something I never thought I'd get because I've always been active. I feel worn out."

He was diagnosed two years ago and has been seeing a specialist who prescribed medication and slowed up its progress.

"It's like you've got no control and you can't do anything about it." he said. "I've always been fairly fit, into walking, played basketball, soccer, all sports - it's tough."

Once released from hospital he went straight to the local animal shelter and got "the boys".

"They get on well and always have - they were a bit excited and also a bit jealous when they saw me," he said.