Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary operates with an “Animals Come First” attitude. It was founded in 1991, originally as The Candy Kitchen Wolf and Wolfdog Rescue Ranch, by the late Jacque Evans, a local artist who used the profits from the sales of her paintings to support the rescued wolves and wolfdogs. News of Jacque’s compassionate devotion to the rescues spread, leading the ranch to expand and to the partnership with Barbara Berge, credited as the co-founder, in 1993. The organization teaches the public about the humane treatment of wild animals, about the relationships between people and other life through respectful, compassionate co-existence, and about humanity’s important role as having the choice to be a part of the change needed to see ecosystems heal and thrive. Because wolves, wolfdogs, and other wild canids are less successful living in domestic homes, people who purchase or breed these animals often find themselves needing to rehome them. Unfortunately, for some, life turns into a locked cage or limited existence on a chain outside; they are often isolated, abused, or neglected. Furthermore, for the wolves and wolfdogs who are unable to find sanctuary, death by euthanasia or shooting is common. In fact, wolfdogs are sentenced to death when discovered as pets in states where it is illegal to own one. Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary’s rescues are not adoptable. They do not legally qualify for rehabilitation or release into the wild either, as they are too acclimated to people and reliant for resources such as food. Care is customized to each animal’s needs, desires, personality, and health. The organization understands that some animals will never want human attention, and it respects that wish by ensuring socialization is never forced. Finally, Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary does not breed, sell, or exploit its rescues. All educational programs are offered on-site and are hands-off to reduce stress on the animals.