By Pat Craig | Executive Director
Wolves are one of the few species that naturally rely on group dynamics to survive. Because of this, it’s only natural that they would seem to do well in captive situations during the beginning stages of their development. Yet, most people mistakenly assume the Wolf’s behavior during these early stages will remain the same as they mature into an adult.
As wolves continue to grow and mature, their needs, perceptions and reactions begin to change. Their need to protect themselves and their family from danger surfaces first. They will attack anyone who isn’t part of their pack. If they escape, they almost always kill all or most of the animals they encounter. Next, their natural instincts will drive them to begin stealing and possessing valuable items. And eventually, their determination to move upwards within the pack hierarchy causes the worst problems. Instead of challenging fellow Wolf Pack members, they have no choice but to challenge their human family members. They start ignoring the children and disrespecting the parents. Without constant and severe dominance interactions, that can cause serious injuries on one side or the other, the alpha humans’ control will not remain intact.
It’s normal for people to romanticize about having a special bond with wild animals. But in reality, it’s nearly impossible for people to adapt their lifestyles to the level and complexity that wild animals require. Our phone and email accounts continue to be flooded with people seeking a new home for their Wolf. The number one reason is because the Wolf escaped and killed one or more of the neighborhood dogs. The second is that the Wolf nipped someone in the family or a friend who came to visit.
Two such Wolves recently came to us from Louisiana: Jacob & Sabo (both adult males). Their domestic situations failed just as miserably as all those before them. We were able to get to them and bring them to the Sanctuary before they were euthanized. Jacob came first and is acclimated and happily playing and running in his large-acreage habitat with a new pack. Sabo is still in the Veterinary Hospital under observation but should soon follow in Jacob’s footsteps.
Thanks to all the amazing Sanctuary supporters, we were able to give Jacob and Sabo a good home! But there are so many more animals like them that still need our help. The more habitats we can build the more animals we can rescue. Please join our battle to end the Captive Wildlife Crisis and help give freedom to animals in need.
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By Pat Craig | Executive Director
By Pat Craig | Executive Director
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