Our History

Wolf Haven International has worked for wolf conservation since 1982 under the mission: conserve and protect wolves and their habitat. Accredited by both the American Sanctuary Association and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, Wolf Haven has rescued and provided a lifetime home to over 325 captive-born wolves, wolfdogs, and coyotes at our sanctuary locations in Tenino, Washington and Bridger, Montana.

The Early Days

In the spring of 1978, Steve & Linda Kuntz purchased a wolf pup from an exotic animal breeder in Colorado. At the time, they knew little about wolves, their needs, or that wolves were an endangered species. Steve and Linda named their wolf Blackfoot and began raising him. In the process, they met Ed Andrews, who owned wolves in Colorado and taught Steve and Linda how to better care for Blackfoot.

In 1980, Ed and his wife moved to Washington to set up a wolf facility where he could educate the public about wolves. They named their facility Wolf Country. Steve and Linda soon followed to study wolves and gain hands-on experience. They learned about proper diet and how to construct enclosures for the wolves in their care. They also began conducting public education forums about wolves at fairs, civic meetings, and schools.

However, with scarce funding and a need to raise their own family, the Andrews’ soon relinquished Wolf Country and the 22 wolves who resided there to Steve and Linda.

Becoming A Sanctuary

In 1982, the Kuntz family moved the organization to Tenino, Washington and filed for nonprofit status as a wolf sanctuary under the name Wolf Haven America.

Their purpose was simple: provide the best possible care for their resident wolves. Wolves who, for the most part, had no other place to go. They also focused on educating the public about the importance of wolves in a healthy ecosystem and why wolves should be preserved and protected in the wild. Wolf Haven’s early years were supported entirely by dedicated volunteers and donations from concerned individuals.

The name Wolf Haven America was eventually changed to Wolf Haven International, complete with a Board of Directors and Executive Director. While intentionally broad, this statement unites all the programs Wolf Haven undertakes, and the incorporation of the word “international” recognizes that wolves need help all over the world and that our supporters can be found all over the world.