Probably 40 years ago the Los Angeles Zoo had a male timber wolf that they
had been given that was raised by a family. I happened to be watching the
wolves for a great length of time and began talking to the caretaker about
the difference between GSD's and the wolves. He decided to take me up to
the sick animal compound to show me this donated wolf who was recovering
from injuries because he could not be housed with their other wolves. The
zoo wolves did not accept him. He was the most gorgeous animal I had ever
seen and he was completely tame. I wanted him. He said that I need to
talk to the zoo veterinarian first. I was led to the office and I told the
Doctor that I was in love with the wolf and wanted him. He smiled and
said...."and when the wolf vacates on the floor are you going to attempt to
train him?" "Yes" I said. "No you're not" said he. "If you have a bitch
in season do you think you can stop him from getting to her....because you
can't!" He went on to explain the many reasons that this IS NOT a dog.
Sadly I was convinced that no one should ever attempt to make a wolf a pet
and said goodbye to this beautiful animal. But I dreamed about him for
weeks.
Helen Franklin
