Providing Sanctuary

Since 1982, Wolf Haven has rescued more than 160 captive-born wolves, whose fate might have been death, from roadside zoos, animal collectors, private owners, research and other facilities.

Rescue efforts are coordinated by Wolf Haven with funds generated by Wolf Haven members and other supporters. Often such endeavors require months of preparation. At Wolf Haven, these wolves receive a lifetime of compassionate care and are treated with dignity and respect for their wild nature.

When wolves come to live at Wolf Haven, or when lone wolves are paired with a new wolf for companionship, one wolf from each pair is given either a tubal ligation or vasectomy. This is done in order to allow the wolves to participate in natural breeding behavior without contributing to captive populations of wild animals.

Our no-breeding policy does not hold true, however, for the Mexican gray wolves or red wolves that have been recommended for breeding as part of the two Species Survival Plans (SSP). The Mexican gray wolves and red wolves are raised with only minimal contact from our animal care staff in order to help them retain their natural fear of people.

Sanctuary specifics

Each enclosure containing a wolf pair or lone wolf measures an average of 1/2 acre. Enclosures containing small packs average one acre with an adjoining separation pen. Wolf Haven currently houses one larger pack of seven individuals in a 3-acre enclosure.

The circular or kidney-shaped designs of our enclosures provide a few important advantages for the wolves: Most importantly, the rounded designs encourage continuous fluid movement, allowing the wolves to run at high speeds without having to stop at a dead end and turn around.