Wolf Haven, the wolf sanctuary north of Tenino, is dark and closed with no electricity and major damage from last week’s storms. All the wolves are safe, but donations are being sought to help repair the damage so it can reopen.
“It’s like a war zone out there,” said Diane Gallegos, executive director. The ice caused tree limbs to break throughout the property. The fencing of nearly every animal enclosure has been seriously damaged, the group said in a news release, and large fallen branches litter the property, making it difficult to reach certain areas.
In addition to the serious damage, Wolf Haven has been without power for several days and will remain closed until further notice.
“There’s no way that we can open again until extensive repairs are made,” Gallegos said. “We’re going to need funds immediately to help restore fences and get critical tree work done. Thankfully and most importantly, the wolves and staff are OK.”
Wolf Haven International hopes to reopen by the first weekend in March.
Animal care staff have worked tirelessly around the clock since the winter storm began Monday, said Kim Young, communications director. Their major concern remains the welfare of the 50 animals there. In addition to the normal rounds that they make each day (which includes feeding, giving fresh water, and dispensing meds as needed), they have had to break ice in water buckets, remove snow from deck pens, clear fallen debris from enclosures and constantly check to make sure each and every wolf is OK.
Wolf Haven International asks for donations to assist them repair and restore the grounds, particularly on and surrounding the wolves’ living quarters. There is an urgent need for additional funds during this slow visitor period, when the sanctuary is normally open only on weekends and closed the entire month of February.
Immediate donations can be made by credit card on the Donate Now button on the home page of their website, www.wolfhaven.org, or by mail to Wolf Haven International, 3111 Offut Lake Road S.E., Tenino, WA 98589.
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