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This Island Is Full Of Friendly Wolves And You Can Visit It
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This Island Is Full Of Friendly Wolves And You Can Visit It

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Awoo! That’s how wolves say, “Pet me, hooman.” (Probably!) Are you itching to find out just how wolves talk to each other? Would you like to take a wolf for walkies in the woods? Do you want to find out just how soft these beautiful animals’ fur really is? And have you ever wanted to learn how to howl directly from a wolf? Well then, we know the perfect place for you. (Not to mention us.)

The Predators of the Heart Sanctuary lets you have an awoosome 2-hour Wolf Encounter Experience. The animal sanctuary’s located in Anacortes in the state of Washington near Seattle and right next to Vancouver past the Canadian border. So Americans and Canadians alike have a great opportunity to go running (or cuddling) with the wild animals. Scroll down for Bored Panda’s interview about wolves with Clive Wynne, Professor of Psychology at Arizona State University and author of Dog is Love: Why and How Your Dog Loves You.

Dear Pandas, have any of you ever gone walking with wolves before? Perhaps you live near the wolf sanctuary? If so, drop us a comment and tell us about your experiences with these adorable animals.

More info: PredatorsOfTheHeart.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

You can go on an awoosome tour in the woods with wolves at the Predators of the Heart Sanctuary in the state of Washington

Image credits: hi_imcole

The wolves are incredibly friendly. Keep in mind, they only have collars on when they pose for photos

Image credits: lanabana007

You can pet them and scratch their bellies

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The animal rescue and preservation sanctuary only keeps animals that “find themselves without a place to live out their lives”

Image credits: rachjoys

According to professor Wynne from Arizona State University, most wolves do not usually act as friendly as those at the sanctuary in Washington. However, ” a wild animal can, with skill and patience, be raised to be willing to react in a friendly way towards humans.”

“People should always do some due diligence before taking a sanctuary’s word for it that their animals are harmless,” the professor pointed out.

We also wanted to know how well the global grey wolf population is thriving currently. Wynne pointed out that “wolves do OK in parts of the world where the human population is very sparse: places like Canada, Alaska, and Siberia.”

“But in most parts of the globe with a significant human population, wolves are in a difficult situation and will need continuous protection from and by people.”

The animal sanctuary lies between Seattle and Vancouver

Image credits: Google Maps

You can’t just drop by to play with the wolves at the sanctuary. You have to book a guided tour with the wolves (don’t worry, the guide’s human… if it’s not the full moon) through Airbnb for around 200 US dollars per person. You can check the dates and the prices right here. Usually, there are 2 tours a day, 6 days a week (the wolves get Sundays off!). And there’s a waitlist. So your perfect day out with wolves will take some planning to get just right.

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Image credits: Predators of the Heart

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Keep in mind that it’s not just wolves that live in the Predators of the Heart Sanctuary: it’s also home to foxes, cougars, reptiles, and birds of prey. Though it’s not just dangerous animals that you can meet there—you can befriend some rescued critters there as well.

You also ought to know that just like voting and driving a car, petting wolves is a strictly 18+ activity. Unfortunately, there are no exceptions to this rule. So if you’re still a minor, you’ll have to wait for your 18th birthday. But imagine celebrating becoming an adult in a forest surrounded by wolves. That’d be incredible, right?

You have to book the wolf experience in advance

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Image credits: predatorsoftheheart

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Full disclosure, the sanctuary has had a couple of safety incidents a long time ago. In one case, a hiker’s dog lost its life when it went onto the sanctuary’s private property. Also, one wolf escaped its enclosure and went onto a neighbor’s property.

The Predators of the Heart Sanctuary first opened in 1998 and encompasses 10 acres. The nonprofit organization maintains very strict standards when it comes to taking care of the animals it protects.

The sanctuary has 10 acres of land where the animals can roam

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“Our goal is to educate children about wildlife, not only to teach the facts about the animals but to use an approach that leads to an appreciation, affection, compassion and respect for these living creatures—to make it clear that an animal’s value is not determined by its similarity or services to humans,” the sanctuary explained it’s mission.

“Our purpose is to develop caring and concern for the animals. Our aim is to help open the eyes of their hearts to see that all nature is interconnected and realize that apart from it we cannot survive. We also serve as a sanctuary for animals that cannot be reintroduced to the wild and need a safe and healthy environment to live out the remainder of their lives.”

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The sanctuary is full of other animals as well, including cougars, birds, and rescued wildlife

Image credits: pothwildlife

Image credits: pothwildlife

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jameiebonde avatar
Darwin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I NEED TO GO I NEED TO GO I NEED TO GO RIGHT NOW!!!!

aftereight1234 avatar
Clavelle
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone else feel like this is an accident waiting to happen? I mean I think it's great when qualified people rescue animals who wouldn't be able to survive on their own, but allowing people who may not fully understand a wolf's natural instincts/behavior being allowed to take them for walks? I just don't know if this is a great idea...

janinesteam avatar
Janine B.
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm also not sure how to feel about this. Don't get me wrong, I really love wolves but they are no pets. They don't have much in common with the dogs we know. Human presence usually puts a wolf under stress. They are simply not capable of learning how to live with humans. Their communication is different from a dog's and they can't read our body language either. That's why I'm really surprised to see them around so many different people. Are they really pure wolves? I seriously doubt that. Never heard from a wolf longing for belly rubs.

Load More Replies...
sasha_10 avatar
Sasha
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sanctuaries for Animals are the best thing ever.I will always support Sanctuaries and the honourable people who runs them and volunteer there. Kudos

cjucz22 avatar
Christina Uhlir
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This place is not a sanctuary, more like a petting ZOO. Not in the best interest of animals.

Load More Replies...
laydephoenix avatar
Vicky Carver
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They are hybrids. I did this for years. They are sweet animals if not bred to be vicious. People get them and then they either find they are illegal in their state or they can’t take care of them. So someone has to take them. I tried to load a pic but I couldn’t.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Youtube video shows you that they are friendly, ah nope! I'll just watch them from the distance.

gprepodnik avatar
MN Free Spirit
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Shhhh...I don't want any fellow Pandas telling my daughter about this place. There aren't letters BIG enough to EXPRESS HER LOVE for WOLVES!!!!!!

katekyffin avatar
Kate Kyffin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fabulous! I can apply to be chief cuddler? Well done all involved in such a great place!

naomi avatar
Naomi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel like I'd get my arm bitten off, but oh well. Probably worth it.

lunahtickk avatar
Olivia Todd
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

200.00 dollars per person? Shouldn't that mean 2 or 3 island by now?

damiangalvin avatar
Damian Galvin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Inspiring story. I have just finished part 1 of a 2 part story, about a wolf in Transylvania for the lifestyle blog section of my site, www.whitemountain.ro. In case it is allowed, this is the link. Feedback is welcome. https://blog.whitemountain.ro/2020/03/hera-the-she-wolf/

isabella avatar
Isabella
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think that 10 acres for such wild animals is rather small.

viki_banaszak avatar
Viki Banaszak
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love it but their mission statement is wrong. Children aren't allowed there so how can they teach children???

amberbarringer avatar
Amber Barringer
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This place is false advertising that these are wolves. They are wolf dogs. Part wolf and part domestic dog. They also claim that their "wolves" have more wolf in them then the actual gray wolves in Yellowstone Park. Completely a lie and they should be investigated for lying to the public just to make money..

marketingteam41 avatar
Chris Houston
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A wolf guys if raised long enough around humans adapts to humanity like any other Dog or breed similar. With the guides explaining the basic understanding a tame wolf would really hold no threat unless you where violent to them. Yes in the few there will always be threats, however I'm sure those particular animals wont be allowed in public contact. Ive known wolf trainers, in fact ones my friend and has 4 himself. They are quite friendly like any breed if tamed right.

debbief2010 avatar
Debbie Freeman
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What an incredible experience. I'd love to visit this sanctuary x

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Those two parrots are more dangerous than the wolves. Wolves with a full stomach are lazy beats. They'll just roll over for a bellyrub. But the parrots will snap through your finger just to see you scream.

rhyanlumilay avatar
rhyan lumilay
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe the wolves just tolerate the human interactions since they we're given free food, shelter and belly rubs? Wild wolves wouldn't interact like that unless they are really grown on captivity maybe they are not totally wild or pure bred.

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These are non-releaseable animals, so they've been in captivity since babyhood. Some wolves are just like over-grown dogs. You like what you're habituated to, after all.

Load More Replies...
rahulkhanna_2 avatar
Rahul Khanna
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Incredible Place. Voiceless animals should get their admiration &rights back from selfish & mean humans as they can't move to police or courts to get the justice when selfish humans do unjust & maltreatment with them. I don't have funds to visit this marvellous place but if I will in future definitely come here. (Thanks for loving & saving voiceless animals )

ashleyhietpas avatar
Ashley Hietpas
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

FYI:these are wolf dogs. Hence, their ability to encounter lots of strangers. Non-hybrid wolves (regardless of upbringing) would probably not act so nicely towards unknown people trying to give them pets.

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depends on the wolf and its upbringing, just like it depends on the dog you meet in the street.

Load More Replies...
matthewp-kopp avatar
Matthew
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Howling Woods Farms is in Jackson NJ and they have Wolf Dogs. It's way cheaper to visit and the wolves are local celebrities; they go to shows and events all the time to raise awareness. I've even seen them at local libraries where their handler does presentations about them :) AND you can take pictures with them WITHOUT the chain lol

victorrsytnik avatar
Russian Otaku
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd go if it were not so so far away and I were not so painfully poor

nvi08140 avatar
The Girl on Fire
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I need to go to this, NOW! Too bad it's 12 hours away from where I live :/

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's across the country from me, and I'm crippled from arthritis. No wolf hiking for me! On the other hand, I've been kissed by a wolf, so it's not all bad.

Load More Replies...
wellsea7 avatar
We'llSee
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd love to go see this sanctuary, love these pictures, so beautiful. Need to look up how to support them.

ashleynell avatar
Ashley Nell
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love this soo much!!! wolves are my favorite animal!! I need to go here!!

codyheitschmidt avatar
Cody Heitschmidt
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The absolute most un-natural environment to put these animals in. An Apex predator turned into a circus animal for human entertainment.

crabcrab avatar
tal19531 avatar
Belince78
Community Member
4 years ago (edited)

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Single Mom With 4 Kids Lost Her Job But Was Able To Stay On Top By Banking Continuously $1500 Per Week With An Online Work She Found Over The Internet... Check The Details........ HERE☛ c­a­r­e­e­r­3­1­.­c­o­m

jameiebonde avatar
Darwin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I NEED TO GO I NEED TO GO I NEED TO GO RIGHT NOW!!!!

aftereight1234 avatar
Clavelle
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone else feel like this is an accident waiting to happen? I mean I think it's great when qualified people rescue animals who wouldn't be able to survive on their own, but allowing people who may not fully understand a wolf's natural instincts/behavior being allowed to take them for walks? I just don't know if this is a great idea...

janinesteam avatar
Janine B.
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm also not sure how to feel about this. Don't get me wrong, I really love wolves but they are no pets. They don't have much in common with the dogs we know. Human presence usually puts a wolf under stress. They are simply not capable of learning how to live with humans. Their communication is different from a dog's and they can't read our body language either. That's why I'm really surprised to see them around so many different people. Are they really pure wolves? I seriously doubt that. Never heard from a wolf longing for belly rubs.

Load More Replies...
sasha_10 avatar
Sasha
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sanctuaries for Animals are the best thing ever.I will always support Sanctuaries and the honourable people who runs them and volunteer there. Kudos

cjucz22 avatar
Christina Uhlir
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This place is not a sanctuary, more like a petting ZOO. Not in the best interest of animals.

Load More Replies...
laydephoenix avatar
Vicky Carver
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They are hybrids. I did this for years. They are sweet animals if not bred to be vicious. People get them and then they either find they are illegal in their state or they can’t take care of them. So someone has to take them. I tried to load a pic but I couldn’t.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Youtube video shows you that they are friendly, ah nope! I'll just watch them from the distance.

gprepodnik avatar
MN Free Spirit
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Shhhh...I don't want any fellow Pandas telling my daughter about this place. There aren't letters BIG enough to EXPRESS HER LOVE for WOLVES!!!!!!

katekyffin avatar
Kate Kyffin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fabulous! I can apply to be chief cuddler? Well done all involved in such a great place!

naomi avatar
Naomi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel like I'd get my arm bitten off, but oh well. Probably worth it.

lunahtickk avatar
Olivia Todd
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

200.00 dollars per person? Shouldn't that mean 2 or 3 island by now?

damiangalvin avatar
Damian Galvin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Inspiring story. I have just finished part 1 of a 2 part story, about a wolf in Transylvania for the lifestyle blog section of my site, www.whitemountain.ro. In case it is allowed, this is the link. Feedback is welcome. https://blog.whitemountain.ro/2020/03/hera-the-she-wolf/

isabella avatar
Isabella
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think that 10 acres for such wild animals is rather small.

viki_banaszak avatar
Viki Banaszak
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love it but their mission statement is wrong. Children aren't allowed there so how can they teach children???

amberbarringer avatar
Amber Barringer
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This place is false advertising that these are wolves. They are wolf dogs. Part wolf and part domestic dog. They also claim that their "wolves" have more wolf in them then the actual gray wolves in Yellowstone Park. Completely a lie and they should be investigated for lying to the public just to make money..

marketingteam41 avatar
Chris Houston
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A wolf guys if raised long enough around humans adapts to humanity like any other Dog or breed similar. With the guides explaining the basic understanding a tame wolf would really hold no threat unless you where violent to them. Yes in the few there will always be threats, however I'm sure those particular animals wont be allowed in public contact. Ive known wolf trainers, in fact ones my friend and has 4 himself. They are quite friendly like any breed if tamed right.

debbief2010 avatar
Debbie Freeman
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What an incredible experience. I'd love to visit this sanctuary x

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Those two parrots are more dangerous than the wolves. Wolves with a full stomach are lazy beats. They'll just roll over for a bellyrub. But the parrots will snap through your finger just to see you scream.

rhyanlumilay avatar
rhyan lumilay
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe the wolves just tolerate the human interactions since they we're given free food, shelter and belly rubs? Wild wolves wouldn't interact like that unless they are really grown on captivity maybe they are not totally wild or pure bred.

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These are non-releaseable animals, so they've been in captivity since babyhood. Some wolves are just like over-grown dogs. You like what you're habituated to, after all.

Load More Replies...
rahulkhanna_2 avatar
Rahul Khanna
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Incredible Place. Voiceless animals should get their admiration &rights back from selfish & mean humans as they can't move to police or courts to get the justice when selfish humans do unjust & maltreatment with them. I don't have funds to visit this marvellous place but if I will in future definitely come here. (Thanks for loving & saving voiceless animals )

ashleyhietpas avatar
Ashley Hietpas
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

FYI:these are wolf dogs. Hence, their ability to encounter lots of strangers. Non-hybrid wolves (regardless of upbringing) would probably not act so nicely towards unknown people trying to give them pets.

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depends on the wolf and its upbringing, just like it depends on the dog you meet in the street.

Load More Replies...
matthewp-kopp avatar
Matthew
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Howling Woods Farms is in Jackson NJ and they have Wolf Dogs. It's way cheaper to visit and the wolves are local celebrities; they go to shows and events all the time to raise awareness. I've even seen them at local libraries where their handler does presentations about them :) AND you can take pictures with them WITHOUT the chain lol

victorrsytnik avatar
Russian Otaku
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd go if it were not so so far away and I were not so painfully poor

nvi08140 avatar
The Girl on Fire
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I need to go to this, NOW! Too bad it's 12 hours away from where I live :/

kkittywidget avatar
Karen Klinck
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's across the country from me, and I'm crippled from arthritis. No wolf hiking for me! On the other hand, I've been kissed by a wolf, so it's not all bad.

Load More Replies...
wellsea7 avatar
We'llSee
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd love to go see this sanctuary, love these pictures, so beautiful. Need to look up how to support them.

ashleynell avatar
Ashley Nell
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love this soo much!!! wolves are my favorite animal!! I need to go here!!

codyheitschmidt avatar
Cody Heitschmidt
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The absolute most un-natural environment to put these animals in. An Apex predator turned into a circus animal for human entertainment.

crabcrab avatar
tal19531 avatar
Belince78
Community Member
4 years ago (edited)

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Single Mom With 4 Kids Lost Her Job But Was Able To Stay On Top By Banking Continuously $1500 Per Week With An Online Work She Found Over The Internet... Check The Details........ HERE☛ c­a­r­e­e­r­3­1­.­c­o­m

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