A Growing Problem

Most animal shelters and humane societies usually will euthanize wolves and wolf-dogs within 24-72 hours after they are surrendered. And, since the 1990s, wolfdogs have become the most abandoned exotic pet in the United States. Darlene understands the growing appeal of keeping wolfdogs and wolves as pets. In the digital era, owning these animals can be extremely tempting. Adding to the attraction of owning wild animals is the popularity that wildlife owners enjoy on social media sites that seem to attract hundreds of thousands of followers. But some of these stories end in tragedy, not just for the animal, but for the owner as well.