If you’re searching for a unique day trip near Seattle, consider heading about two hours south to ROAM Wolfdog Sanctuary in Shelton, WA. This educational sanctuary provides a permanent home for 19 rescued wolfdogs, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about these fascinating animals while supporting their lifelong care.
What exactly is a wolfdog? Despite their wild appearance, wolfdogs aren’t wild animals. They’re the result of intentional breeding between wolves and domestic dogs, often breeds like German Shepherds, Huskies, or Malamutes. Because they exist somewhere between the wild and domestic worlds, wolfdogs have complex behaviors and needs that make them unsuitable for most homes. Unfortunately, many are surrendered or abandoned when owners realize the challenges involved.
ROAM steps in to provide these wolfdogs with a second chance. The sanctuary’s resident wolfdogs come from across the U.S., each with a unique backstory. They now live out their lives in spacious one-acre enclosures designed to resemble their natural habitat, where trained caretakers prioritize their health, enrichment, and ability to express natural behaviors. The sanctuary also advocates for wild wolves in Washington state.
The sanctuary offers a limited number of guided tours each week, and reservations are required. The popular 90-minute VIP Educational Tour gives guests an up-close look at the sanctuary while learning about wolfdog behavior, conservation, and responsible ownership. Visitors also have the opportunity to safely meet one of the sanctuary’s social ambassador wolfdogs in a carefully supervised setting. Tours are available Friday through Monday, and booking several weeks in advance is recommended.
For an even more memorable experience, ROAM recently introduced its Howl and Hike tour. This intimate 60- to 90-minute adventure takes small groups on a 1.5-mile forest walk alongside two ambassador wolfdogs, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning along the way. The hike does not include access to the sanctuary itself, so visitors hoping to meet all 19 resident wolfdogs should pair it with the VIP tour, which begins immediately afterward.
ROAM Wolfdog Sanctuary is located at 200 E. Miracle Heights Dr in Shelton, WA. Its proximity to Seattle makes it a bucket list day trip for animal lovers in the region who are looking to support a good cause and have an unforgettable experience.
For more information about tours, sponsoring a wolfdog, or getting updates directly from ROAM, you can visit the sanctuary’s website.
