The rescue and adoption of wolfdogs

rescue

How we support wolfdogs

The primary focus of the Sanctuary is to drive public awareness and education on wolfdogs. There are many misconceptions surrounding these animals, and backyard breeders take advantage of the misconceptions to create a market for wolfdogs as exotic pets. The majority of the wolfdogs at the Sanctuary are from people surrendering them after failing to have them as pets in their homes. 

While we do accept surrenders, we are at capacity based on the number of enclosures we currently have, and sadly have to turn many wolfdogs away. So we turn our attention to educating the public on the true nature of wolfdogs and the negative outcomes for the many intentionally bred high-content wolfdogs who end up being displaced. We do support rehoming low content wolfdogs that would do well in specific homes. 

Wolfdog ownership

Wolfdog ownership is not the same as dog ownership. It takes an educated and prepared individual/family to provide a good home for a wolfdog. Below are some things that people should be aware of as to what makes a good wolfdog owner:

  • The ability to provide adequate containment (they are jumpers and diggers)
  • The ability to provide ample physical and mental stimulation daily
  • Always ensuring their wolfdog is setup for success and never putting them in a situation that could pose a risk to their wellbeing 
  • Taking the time to understand a wolfdog’s specific challenges and behaviours and knowing how to manage them
  • Have done extensive research on wolfdog behaviour and ownership prior to adopting or buying one

There are currently no wolfdogs available for adoption at YWS

Adopting a wolfdog can be one of the most rewarding experiences: not only are you offering a wolfdog a second lease on life, but when a suitable family is found,
you’re giving them another family member—and that is a gift that can’t be replaced. 

Download our Adoption Package to learn more about how our adoption process works, and for instructions on applying.

There are currently no wolfdogs available for adoption.

adoption info packageNo wolfdogs available

There are currently no wolfdogs AVAILABLE for adoption.

When owners are in need of new placement for their wolfdog, but we don't have the space to bring them into our care, we may assist them by posting them as a courtesy post. These adoptions are not through Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary.

Before you surrender

If you are considering surrendering your wolfdog, please consider the following options:

  1. Contact us for any behavioural advice with your wolfdog. We are happy to offer knowledgeable information and advice regarding containment, enrichment, and any behavioural questions.
  2. Consult a trainer that is knowledgeable with wolfdog behaviour. If you require suggestions on trainers, please contact us.
  3. If you purchased your wolfdog from a breeder, contact them in regards to returning the animal. Any reputable breeder should have a return policy in place if you are no longer able to care for the animal.

Surrender Process

If you need to surrender your wolfdog, here is some information regarding the surrender process.

  1. We will require you to fill out the Surrender Application and include any photos of your wolfdog. This helps us gather the necessary information we need.
  2. Once we have received the application, we will review it and discuss further options.
  3. If it is determined that the wolfdog is able to come to Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, we will arrange a drop off date and surrender fee.
  4. If it is determined that the animal cannot come to Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, we will discuss other options for the animal that will assist you in placing the animal.

The Yamnuska wolfdogs 

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary currently has 55+ wolfdogs. Our wolfdog ambassadors are the wolfdogs that take front and center stage at events and Sanctuary interactions to help educate the public about their unique nature and the importance of wolf conservation.

Meet our wolfdogs

Top 10 wolfdog FAQ's

What is the average life span of a wolfdog?

Will a wolfdog get along with a cat or other small animals?

Are all wolfdogs suitable to be pets?

How are wolfdogs around young kids?

Do wolfdogs make good guard dogs?

Are wolfdogs legal?

Can you own a wolfdog in the city?

Do wolfdogs get along with other dogs?

How much exercise do they need?

What do wolfdogs eat?