Canada

Alberta wolfdog sanctuary now home to 2 coydogs

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The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane, Alta., is housing two coydogs - canines that are a mix between coyotes and domestic dogs. (Supplied/Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary)

An animal sanctuary west of Calgary known for sheltering wolfdogs — crossbreeds of domestic dogs and wolves — now has two other exotic canines.

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane recently received two coydogs, animals which are bred from coyotes and dogs.

The first, named Wildfire, was part of a large rescue of 14 wolfdogs from a breeder who was shutting down.

Sketti, the other coydog, came to the facility from a home in Arizona after originally being rescued from “an illegal situation.”

Staff say the animals are “intentionally bred by humans for the exotic pet trade” and are uneasy around humans.

“Their enclosure is tucked away from the public pathways here at the Sanctuary, as they are both quite shy and uncomfortable around visitors,” officials said in a statement.

“However, since arriving, they have both come a long way with their confidence, and they are doing well in a space where they can feel safe, comfortable, and simply be themselves.”

Learn more about the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary and its mission by going online.