Our story
Built on the ridge. Driven by the pack.
Our mission
Wolf Haven Ridge Rescue exists to provide safe, species-appropriate sanctuary for wolves and wolfdogs surrendered, seized, or abandoned across the United States.
We believe every animal deserves a life free from fear — one that honors their wild nature while keeping them safe. Our 80-acre Kentucky Ridge sanctuary is designed around that belief: large natural enclosures, enrichment-first care, and a staff trained in wolf and wolfdog behavior.
We are a lifetime-care facility. Animals who come to us stay with us. We do not euthanize for space, and we do not place animals in situations that compromise their welfare.
How it started
In 2021, founders Tammy and Atlee took in their first wolfdog — a low content female named Olive who had been left at a vetThey had no plan to start a rescue. They just couldn't say no.
Word spread. More animals arrived. Within two years, they had converted their rural property into a proper sanctuary, built their first large enclosures, and incorporated as a non-profit. Wolf Haven Ridge Rescue was official.
Today the sanctuary spans 80 acres in the Kentucky foothills. We have dedicated our personal lives to care for these animals.
The people behind the pack
The Founder
Co-Founder & Sanctuary Director
Atlee hes the builder and heavy lifter, without him backing everything from funds when there are little to no donations to building and planning enclosures.
Veterinary Director
Cave Run Veterinary Clinic
Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
Amber Workman works behind the scenes on training volunteers.
Education
What is a wolfdog?
Wolfdogs are the offspring of a domestic dog and a wolf — or of two wolfdogs. They are not pets in the traditional sense, and they are not wild wolves. They exist in a difficult in-between space that makes them one of the most misunderstood and most surrendered animals in the United States.
They are not domesticated
Even low-content wolfdogs retain strong instincts — prey drive, escape behavior, resource guarding, and fear responses — that most pet owners are not equipped to manage safely.
They need specialized housing
Standard fencing does not contain wolfdogs. They require 8-foot minimum fencing with lean-ins or hot wire, large acreage, and enrichment that engages their natural behaviors.
They are often misrepresented
Breeders frequently misrepresent wolfdog content — calling low-content animals 'pure wolves' to inflate prices, or denying wolf content to avoid legal restrictions. DNA testing is the only reliable measure.
Most states restrict or ban them
Wolfdog ownership is illegal or heavily restricted in many US states. Animals are frequently seized by animal control and face euthanasia without a sanctuary willing to take them.
Ready to make a difference?
Every dollar, every volunteer hour, and every adoption inquiry helps us keep the sanctuary running and the animals safe.