The concept of possessing a wolf captivates numerous individuals, which explains the recent surge in popularity of wolfdog hybrids.
According to W.O.L.F Sanctuary, there are roughly 250,000 to 500,000 wolves and wolfdogs kept as pets in the United States alone.
With escalating popularity comes an increased risk of over-breeding, backyard breeding, and exploiting puppies for financial gain.
Steve and Paula are a wonderful duo from Los Angeles, California, who, through their non-profit organization – Apex Protection Project – rescue and save many wolfdog breeds, including the adorable baby boy, Loki.
Rescued From A Backyard Breeder
Loki was rescued at merely 3 ½ weeks old from a backyard breeding scenario, alongside his other siblings.
He was so diminutive that he could practically fit in their palm.
Steve and Paula would stay awake all night, every day, nurturing Loki and his siblings, aiming to keep them alive.
“So, Loki was nurtured by both of us, all our volunteers, a Pitbull, and Taboo, our wolfdog, who acted as his mother,” Steve mentioned to GeoBeats Animals.
Loki grew astonishingly fast, evolving into a magnificent being weighing 100 pounds.
“He doesn’t resemble a wolf; he doesn’t resemble a dog. He’s nearly like a cartoon,” Steve expressed.
Loki is 51% dog and 49% wolf, but to those who know him – he is 100% lovebug.
He ‘Purrs’ When He’s Happy
Having collaborated with wolfdogs for numerous years, Steve and Paula discovered that these hybrids frequently possess a distinctive means of communication.
It required them years to comprehend wolf language and its true significance – 95% of their communication consists of growls.
“Many individuals who don’t know him consider he’s growling, when in reality, that’s his purr. He does it when he is joyful,” Paula shared. “He growls at anything and everyone in the most affectionate manner,” Steve added while beaming.
It may seem odd for some, or even frightening, but that is merely Loki’s method of communication. He has been making these “happy growls” ever since he was a tiny baby.
According to Steve and Paula, Loki is genuinely a massive sweetheart, and has always been.
When six little pups arrived at the rescue, Loki assumed the role of their caretaker and they trailed him everywhere.
If you’re contemplating adopting a wolfdog, Steve has some counsel for you:
“They’re not suitable for everyone. If you seek to maintain any semblance of a normal life, don’t acquire a wolfdog. They’re akin to having a 2-year-old child with exceptionally large teeth for their entire lifespan. You must have eyes at the back of your head. It’s essentially a full-time occupation.”
Nonetheless, regardless of the challenges involved in raising them, they remain extraordinary beings that leave you breathless every time you gaze upon them.
Both Steve and Paula concur that there exists something enchanting about wolfdogs. “He’s almost akin to a woodland creature… like he emerged from Narnia,” they remarked.
Loki has been integral to their lives for nearly 8 years now. He is their child, and they wouldn’t desire it any other way.
Watch Loki’s journey here to experience some of his famous “happy growls”: