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 A Volunteer's Perspective
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Written by Patrick Piscani
I’m originally from New York City. I lived there all my life until I moved to Colorado back in December of 1998. When I arrived in Colorado, as you might imagine, the life-style and the landscape were quite a shock to my system and it took some time to get used to. It wasn’t until a few years later that I was introduced to the Wolf organization. Wolf was on one of their many educational outings at Nature’s Own in Old Town, Fort Collins. I remember how entranced I was with Wolf’s two ambassador guests. It was at that time I decided to get involved with their organization, first as a supporter, then sometime later, as a volunteer. Throughout the years, the Wolf organization has given me an appreciation of wildlife and the environment. I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the fabulous experiences I’ve gathered together of my many visits to the Sanctuary and talk about some of the wonderful souls I’ve come to know. |
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| Some of my most vivid memories are of Spirit; here, pictured with my daughter. We lost Spirit a couple of years ago and to this day, I can remember the deep sorrow I felt when I was told he passed. Spirit embodied everything I believe a wolf to be. Beauty – size -strength – grace and caring. When Spirit would approach – you would literally feel butterflies in your stomach. He would approach from behind and give you a nudge in the back letting you know he was there; you could feel his breath on your neck. Then, he would come around to your side and move slowly toward your face always |
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| keeping a watchful eye. Despite his enormous size and strength, once he was close enough, he would gently plant a kiss on your face. After sharing a few moments with you – he would walk away with the grace of a King. Spirit was an experience I will never forget! |
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| Next up Akyra, seen here with my wife. Akyra had been with Wolf for several years; she passed earlier this year. Her story is among the saddest. Despite the cruel treatment she endured from humans during her youth – throughout her life, she remained one of the most loving animals at the Sanctuary. She was always loaded with kisses and affection, and if you gave her cheese – you had a friend for life. Akyra always approached you straight forward and was totally unpretentious. When she kissed you, you may have felt a pinch or two from her front teeth as they were deformed a bit |
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and pushed outward. But, the pinch was well worth the greeting she brought to you. I adopted Akyra because more than any resident of the Sanctuary, she reminded me about the need for forgiveness and tolerance of humans. |
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Arcs! Back in the winter of 2001, I had the privilege of going on a rescue. But, let me back up a moment. Prior to the rescue, I participated in the building of the enclosure that would eventually house Arcs. Building an enclosure is a tedious and difficult undertaking; especially in the winter. This was up near Blackhawk – so it was very cold those couple of days, and, snowing as well. In typical New York style – I showed up to help with no gloves – no special winter clothing and sneakers to top it off. I learned quickly, you can’t fool with Mother Nature. Despite all bets against me making it through the build, I did make it. In reward of my efforts, I got to go on the Arcs rescue. Above you can see one of the first pictures taken of Arcs in the new enclosure. It was a spectacular event.
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| When my dear friend Vivian visited Wolf, her two favorites were Tunyan and Kenai. Tunyan was easily lured to her side by a piece of string cheese. I remember when Tunyan arrived at Wolf, you could easily hold her in your lap; but those days are long gone. Vivian was able to earn her… “I Swapped Spit With A Wolf” button, courtesy of Tunyan. |
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| Kenai! Kenai is extremely special. He comes up behind you – greets you with a “Nip Nip – Lick” and then gives you his famous scent rub. This ritual that goes on every time you visit with Kenai is so extraordinary; it has made him everyone’s favorite. |
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| Nugget. When you first enter the Sanctuary or visit her enclosure, Nugget will always welcome you with gentle barking. She is the first one that comes down to the front gate to meet you and will always sit by your side and nudge you for a hearty back scratch. When my nephew Emil visited, Nugget was happy to offer him some company. She is a bit of a ham though. It seems that every picture you take of Nugget, she flashes this big smile for the camera. She is a sweet soul and is loved by everyone that has the pleasure of meeting her. |
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Isabeau and Shaman are main attractions at the Sanctuary; Theresa has made friends with them both. Let’s talk about Isabeau first. Isabeau can keep you on your feet. She gets into everything! Without stretching the truth one iota, she can be described as a bit hyper, mischievous, playful, bad, and, a bit nuts! That being said, she is loving, spirited, and, when you are around her, she fills you with a feeling that turns an ordinary day into sometime special; she turns your attention to things that matter. I for one am glad she found a home at Wolf.
Shaman on the other hand is more reserved. You need to work a lot harder to win Shaman’s affections; but, once you do, the experience is wonderful. He is so impressive when you see him and he will quickly let you know if you are doing something he does not appreciate. Throughout the years, I’ve seen some very funny expressions on peoples’ faces when Shaman sends the message out that he would prefer not to be bothered. Nashoba, a recent addition to the family, makes this enclosure a trio. This has been a great relief for Shaman as Nashoba helps keep Isabeau entertained. |
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| The last individuals I will feature in this article, but not least, are Merlin and Mucqua. Merlin is just a bunch a love. As you can see (right) with Alex, he loves to have his back scratched. He’s on a special diet so you can’t give him any treats, but, you really don’t need to. Merlin is more than happy to join you for a visit. Finally, you have Mucqua. Mucqua is amazing! Frank tells me he is totally blind. I find this so hard to believe. Whenever I visit his enclosure to bring him food and water, he seems to watch every move I make – following my every step. If you observe him for a while, he navigates his enclosure as if he had 20-20 vision; I’m astounded on a weekly basis. Another worthy note is that Mucqua is the patriarch of the Sanctuary. |
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| “Wolf believes each captive-bred wolf or wolf-dog has a unique and valuable spirit. These spirits have a right to live their lives in an environment that allows them to be as happy and well-adjusted as possible.” Each year this message becomes clearer to me. The acronym “WOLF” stands for Wolves Offered Life and Friendship. However, Wolf offers much more than that. Wolf offers people a place to learn and experience first-hand, how precious these animal souls truly are. |
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WOLF, Post Office Box 1544, La Porte, CO 80535 - USA |
