Horton, Shadow, and Kiba (Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary)

In January of 2015, volunteers from the Alberta SPCA entered a property in Milk River after a concerned member of the public called for help. It became clear almost instantly that this would be one of the worst cases many of them had ever dealt with. After hours searching the area, volunteers found 201 dogs – malnourished, abandoned, and, in some cases, with broken limbs. Most of these dogs were rescued and sent to various rescue organizations, but 5 of them were destined for a different path. Those five rescues were wolfdogs, and they would find their peace at Yamnuska.

Wolves have long resonated with humans. After all, the wolf is the predecessor to “man’s best friend,” likely evolving around 15,000 years ago according to a study conducted at Skidmore College. It isn’t so difficult to imagine why wolfdogs have recently emerged as a prevalent breed to adopt, though the surge in popularity comes with grave consequences. According to Scott, a guide at Yamnuska sanctuary, “Generally speaking, wolfdogs don't make good pets, so the fact breeders are profiting off wolfdogs is kind of bad enough. That being said, some low content wolfdogs (less wolf content, therefore more dog) can make good pets, but are still very challenging, and most breeders don't take the time to ensure the animals are going to proper homes that can raise them.”

Because of this lack of accountability, many wolfdogs are surrendered and euthanized every year; in the US alone, 40% of all wolfdogs were reportedly put down. As Scott reported, “In many ways, this is due to the fact breeders can run their businesses without much accountability. They breed them and don't ensure that they go to good homes, and then this disturbing stat comes into play.” As Canada’s only wolfdog sanctuary, Yamnuska focuses on taking in wolfdogs surrendered by their owners. This is a necessary mission: wolfdogs legally cannot be taken in by humane societies or released into the wild, thus resulting in a disproportionate number of euthanizations. However, many of the wolfdogs that are brought to Yamnuska can eventually be adopted into other loving homes.

Eventually, two of the rescued wolfdogs from the Milk River seizure "bounced back" after their time at Yamnuska and were able to go on to find loving, well-informed families. The other three – now known as Horton, Shadow, and Kiba – have found a permanent home at Yamnuska. Though all three are very shy and often reserved around humans, they have made much progress since their rescue. Scott spoke on behalf of the whole team at Yamnuska and emphasized that, “We work with them daily and teach them that people are not something to be feared, and that we love them very much!”

Horton, Shadow, and Kiba found their sanctuary at Yamnuska.