NWA Rescuer Code of Ethics:
The National Wolfdog Alliance highly recommends that these elements be considered as minimal requirements for the responsible rescue and placement of wolfdogs:
- Proper, adequate, and permanent containment should be provided. "Proper and adequate" is defined as containment that cannot be escaped from, is safe from hazards which could cause harm to the animal, is of a minimum of 25' X 25' in size, and is adherent to all applicable land use, zoning & animal control laws. If the minimum size of containment is utilized, NWA highly suggests that an exercise yard be available for weekly runs, as wolfdogs require exercise for good health. Perimeter fencing of a minimum 6' in height is considered a necessity for rescue facilities, and should be implemented for the safety of the wolfdogs, and the public.
- As an addendum to the containment issues above, NWA suggests that a maximum of two (2) animals be housed in the minimum 25' X 25' containment described above, so as to alleviate the stress associated with over-crowding.
- NWA highly recommends that a rescue facility either own the property that the rescue is on or that a long term lease be in place that states that the rescue is a permitted use of the property, that the land lord is in agreement or acceptance, and that if the lease needs to be broken that an adequate and fair amount of time is given for the rescue to relocate. "Adequate & fair", in this case, is defined as "lawfully and reasonably sufficient" (see: http://www.rentalprop.com/ltlaws.htm for applicable tenant/landlord laws) All required permits should be in place in their entirety prior to the placement of the animals in said rescue, be they federal, state, or local permits.
- Proper & adequate medical care should be implemented, and funds budgeted for and set aside for emergencies. This does not preclude the use of homeopathy & natural care, and does include up-to-date rabies vaccine records.
- All animals should be spayed/neutered.
- Breeding of rescue animals is considered unethical, and all preventative measures should be taken to prevent the accidental breeding of animals in rescue facilities.
- As wolfdogs are highly social canines, it is recommended that a companion animal of a compatible type, size, and complimentary temperament be provided for the mental and physical well being of the animal.
- A rescuer should have experience in rehabilitation and behavior issues.
- Environmental enrichment should be an integral part of a wolfdog's life.
This includes developmentally appropriate socialization, habituation and training/rehabilitation programs. NWA suggests that positive-reinforcement based training/rehabilitation techniques be utilized.
- Tethering (by chain, cable, or rope) should never be used as primary containment, only as a temporary measure with constant, direct supervision by a responsible adult. "Temporary" is defined as being of a limited duration, and in this instance, special attention should be made of the animal's territoriality. Tethering accentuates the animals' "fight or flight" reflex.
- As soon as a wolfdog comes into rescue, every attempt should be made to locate and contact the breeder. Re-homing of wolfdogs should be handled with respect to the unique needs and requirements of the individual animal, in regard to both transportation and placement considerations. Thorough screening of prospective foster or adoptive homes is essential to ensure preparedness, appropriateness and long-term feasibility. Screening should include, but is not limited to: containment enclosure inspections, legality investigations, spay/neuter arrangements, experience level, etc.
- A responsible rescuer should not knowingly misrepresent, falsely advertise, or mislead any person regarding any animal(s) in their care.
- If a rescuer relies in any way on public or private donations, adequate records of all donations should be kept on file according to the applicable laws.
A rescuer is defined as any person, group of persons, facility or other entity, either incorporated or unincorporated, that participates in the harboring, maintaining and/or placement of seized, stray, homeless, abandoned or unwanted wolfdogs.
Questionnaire
1. What made you consider a rescue?
2. Why do you want a wolf or wolfdog?
3. What experiences have you had with wolves or wolf dogs?
4. Do you have small children? What ages? Are you aware of the fact that wolves and wolfdogs (or any large canine) should not be allowed around small children, unless extremely close supervision is provided? Any large dog can hurt a child even in play. A small child running and playing might also trigger a predatory response from the animal.
5. Is your entire family agreeable on the adoption of a wolf or wolfdog?
6. What kind of safe and humane containment can you provide? Wolves and wolfdogs should never be chained nor should they be allowed to run free.
7. Do you have a pen currently? What expenses are you willing to incur to build an adequate environment for your wolf dog? For two animals we recommend a minimum 50'x50' enclosure made of 9-gauge chain link, 7-8 feet high with dig guard and overhang. Wolves and wolf dogs can jump 8 feet and are excellent climber and diggers.
8. What literature have you studied regarding wolf or wolf dog ownership?
9. Are you prepared to give your wolf dog a canine companion? These are social animals and do not do well alone.
10. Do you own your home or rent?
11. Do you live in a residential area? How do your neighbors feel about wolf dogs in the area?
12. Please describe your neighborhood. (Nearness of other homes, other pets nearby, climate etc.)
13. What are your state, county or local regulations concerning wolves and wolf dogs? We cannot adopt out to any area where they are banned or otherwise illegal.
14. Do you have a qualified veterinarian close by that is willing to work with wolves or wolfdogs? Will he/she give it rabies shots? Make sure your vet is knowledgeable about the special needs of wolf dogs, i.e., medications, etc.
15. Are you prepared to keep the animal for its natural life and provide a stress free environment? If you have to move, are you prepared to take the animal with you? Are you prepared to make that kind of commitment?
16. Have you owned a dog before? If so, what breed and for how long? What happened to that dog?
17. Are you looking for a guard dog? Are you aware that wolves and most wolf dogs do not make good guard dogs? Wolves are extremely shy by nature and run from strangers. It is extremely rare for a wolf (and most wolfdogs) to bark. They will not protect your home or family.
18. Are you looking for a house pet? While many wolf dogs can make good house pets, wolves and wolf dogs are, by nature, extremely curious and, thus, destructive. They also scent mark their territory.
19. Are you aware than an "Alpha" animal can challenge you for leadership?
20. Do you have a full-time career with long hours away and many out-of-town trips?
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