The Alaska 9

The puppies' Jan. 2014 update - The move of the 3-pack

As reported previously, the Alaska 9 split itself into 2 packs when hormones and jealousy kicked in during the spring of 2013. Billy, Ginger and Sita formed a 3-pack and had to be separated from the other 6 pack members as their shyness turned to aggression. The break-up wasn't completely unexpected. But, it was hoped that it might be avoided. Nature made the choice.

The 3-pack were moved from the newly built "puppy pen" into the large enclosure being used by Ghost and Rukai. Ghost and Rukia were temporarily moved up the hill to a smaller enclosure. A new, additional "puppy pen" had to be built.

The planning started and in the summer of 2013, a large donor came forward and said, "let's get it done."  The work started immediately as the new site was picked out across from Razi, Keith started compiling material lists and the road and drainage work started.

Wolfwood volunteers spent months digging holes, pouring concrete, moving materials, fixing drainage and welding, welding, welding. This wasn't the first large enclosure built at the Refuge so Craig, Keith and Paula knew what they needed and what worked and what didn't work.

(click on any picture for a larger, high-resolution image)

The enclosure was completed in January as the mild winter helped move things along.  It was time to move the 3-pack.  Since the 3-pack members are very shy, you might think that moving them is as simple as putting a leash on them and walking them to their new home. You would be wrong. These are not domesticated wolves.  They are shy and gentle when they are in their element and in control.  But, cornering them to leash them would result in harm to both the volunteers and the wolves.  For the safety of all, the 3 wolves would be tranquilized using a dart gun.  Dr. Wagner, our wonderful vet, was on hand while Craig sedated each animal.  She also took the opportunity to examine each of them.

Volunteers gently carried the wolves to their new enclosure and the sedation slowly wore off. The transfer was made with no harm to either the wolves or the volunteers.

The 3-pack seems to be enjoying their new home. It has diverse terrain and lots of growth. Ghost and Rukai have also moved back to their large enclosure. Another very large project has been completed at Wolfwood Refuge thanks to the generosity of our donors and our volunteers. We are sure this won't be the last large construction project.