Abandoned Wolfdog Escapes Cruel Fate Thanks To Amazing Shelter Volunteers
Can you imagine taking in such a beautiful wolf pup to live with you, only to abandon him when he turns out to be a magnificent wolf?
Well this is exactly what happened to Yuki, and he was almost sure to meet the cruel fate of abandoned dogs – euthanasia.
Thankfully he was rescued by an amazing team of volunteers at the Shy Wolf Sanctuary, where he was able to live a full & happy life.
A Wild Heart Finds Refuge
Yuki’s story begins with a startling revelation about his nature; he is an impressive 87.5% grey wolf.
To be more exact, he’s 87.5% grey wolf, 8.6% Siberian Husky, and 3.9% German Shepherd.
Brittany, a volunteer at the sanctuary where Yuki resides, admits her initial nervousness around him due to his size and wild instincts. Despite this, only a select few volunteers, including Brittany, have managed to build a unique bond with him, allowing them to interact closely.
Source: Shy Wolf Sanctuary
Yuki, at 12 years old and weighing around 120 pounds, stands as a towering figure, embodying the majestic and imposing traits of a wolf.
From Abandonment to Sanctuary
Like many animals at the sanctuary, Yuki’s journey started when someone obtained him as a puppy, only to abandon him upon realizing his predominant wolf behaviors.
Facing the grim fate that befalls many wolf dogs—immediate euthanasia at shelters—Yuki was rescued by the sanctuary.
Source: Shy Wolf Sanctuary
Here, he has thrived on a diet suited for his needs, including raw chicken, pork, and sometimes ground beef, showcasing the sanctuary’s commitment to providing a semblance of a natural lifestyle for its residents.
Viral Fame and a Direwolf Comparison
Yuki’s striking appearance and formidable size have drawn comparisons to the mythical direwolves from Game of Thrones, earning him viral fame.
A photo capturing him mid-yawn went particularly viral, emphasizing his ferocious yet majestic beauty.
“I’m really happy that Yuki’s picture went viral. because people can see him, and people can just admire him for what he is” says Brittany.
This attention has helped raise awareness about Yuki and the sanctuary’s mission, spotlighting the plight of exotic animals bred for pets but later abandoned.
The Sanctuary’s Broader Mission
Shy Wolf Sanctuary, home to Yuki, is dedicated to rescuing animals bred to be pets and later discarded.
Here, animals like Yuki find a safe haven where their needs are met with love and professional care.
Source: Shy Wolf Sanctuary
The sanctuary also houses other remarkable animals, such as Cimarron, referred to as a Florida Panther but genetically a North American mountain lion, and Jasper, a 100% grey wolf mistaken for a wolf dog.
Facing Challenges with Courage
Yuki’s life took a challenging turn a year ago when he was diagnosed with cancer.
Despite this setback, Yuki has remained in high spirits, showing no signs of pain and continuing to inspire those around him with his resilience and strength.
Source: Shy Wolf Sanctuary
His story is a testament to the sanctuary’s impact, providing a loving environment for animals with difficult pasts.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, the sanctuary aims to expand its reach and capacity.
With hopes of moving to a larger property, the goal is to rescue more animals like Yuki, offering them a chance at a better life.
Jeremy, a voice for the sanctuary, envisions a future where they can extend their compassion and refuge to many more animals in need, underscoring the sanctuary’s dedication to its noble cause.
Source: Shy Wolf Sanctuary
Conclusion: A Legacy of Love and Hope
We are sad to learn that Yuki passed away since this story was published, at the age of 13 years old.
Yuki’s tale is more than just a story of survival; it’s a beacon of hope and a call to action for the protection and care of animals born into circumstances beyond their control.
His life at the sanctuary highlights the beauty of second chances and the profound bonds that can form between humans and animals. Yuki’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the sanctuary’s vital role in providing a safe haven for those without a voice.
