Sometimes, animals with a rare mix of wolf and dog, like Yuki, can face tough times. But Yuki’s story didn’t end at a kill shelter. Instead, it began a new chapter at the Shy Wolf Sanctuary in Florida, where animals and people share an incredible bond of friendship and care.
A Mix of Wild and Loyal
“His DNA testing came back as 87.5% Gray Wolf, 8.6% Siberian Husky, and 3.9% German Shepherd,” said Brittany Allen, a staff member of Shy Wolf Sanctuary.
Even though Yuki’s got a lot of gray wolf in him, mixed with some dog breeds like Husky and Shepherd, he’s also got a big heart.
His looks might remind you of the wilderness, but his eyes show how kind and friendly he is.
A New Start Leads to Fame
A photo of Yuki with Brittany went viral online.
Yuki looks huge next to Brittany, but it’s the camera angle that makes it seem that way.
Brittany’s humorous response to people who thought the photo was edited, ‘. We all have one,’ sparked even more curiosity about Yuki.
One Photo Makes a Big Difference
The photo has become a way to share Yuki’s story. It piqued everyone’s curiosity about his life.
Yuki arrived at the sanctuary in 2008 with an open wound that needed five surgeries to heal, and he used to be cage-aggressive.
“We rescued him from a failed house pet situation. Someone purchased him from a breeder and realized he was too much to handle,” Brittany said. “They dumped him at a kill shelter at eight months old. We stepped in and provided a home for him, and he has been with us ever since.”
Yuki’s True Color Shines in a Caring Home
The Shy Wolf Sanctuary did something really special for Yuki, revealing his charming personality and playful attitude.
In the comfort and security of this loving environment, he went from being a shy, aggressive, and uncertain wolfdog to one full of life and joy.
The staff even nicknamed him ‘Woowoo’ after the adorable sound he makes when he greets or calls his friends.
Welcoming Every Animal, No Matter What They Look Like
Despite Yuki’s difficult beginnings and subsequent health challenges, he found abundant love at the sanctuary.
The staff became his family.
Yuki formed a close-knit group, fondly referred to as his ‘harem,’ consisting of female volunteers he adored for their gentle care.
Their special bond was a heartwarming example of how the right environment can help an animal reveal the most endearing parts of their character.
Kindness Leaves a Lasting Mark
Even when Yuki became really sick, he didn’t lose his spirit.
The sanctuary wanted his last days to be good, filled with love and friendship.
So, they made sure he was loved and comfortable until the end.
Looking Beyond Appearance
Even though Yuki passed away on November 15th, 2020, his story still touches hearts.
It shows us that looking different doesn’t matter when it comes to love and friendship.
Now, every share of Yuki’s photo helps to spread the message that an animal in need can flourish with human kindness and support.