Tenino’s Wolf Haven launches silent, ‘sanctuary’ viewing experience

The Tenino-based Wolf Haven International has launched a contemplative experience called “Sanctuary as a Mindset,” according to a news release from the organization.

The new program lets guests observe rescued wolves, wolfdogs and coyotes, as well as endangered American red wolves and Mexican wolves, in a “quiet and relaxed sanctuary environment.”

The four-hour experience currently has limited spots open for Sept. 27.

“Our new program, Sanctuary as a Mindset, celebrates and nurtures our organization’s core values of respect, compassion, empathy and coexistence,” Sanctuary Director Pamela Maciel Cabañas said.

According to the release, the program includes an introduction to the resident animals, a walk through a restored Mima mound prairie and two hours of silent time inside the sanctuary.

Along the way, guests can visit Wolf Haven’s iconic 300-year-old “grandfather tree.”

As part of the experience, Wolf Haven invites guests to read, write, draw, craft or practice mindfulness.

Following the program, participants are invited to reflect on their experience.

“I’m normally glued to screens,” one participant said about last year’s inaugural program. “I wanted to step out of that and immerse myself in something new.”

Another said, “It was an excellent reminder to do this more often. Set aside the time and space to sit in the natural world, absorb it, and appreciate my place in it.”

Wolf Haven was established in 1982 with the mission to conserve and protect wolves and their habitat. The nonprofit is accredited by both the American Sanctuary Association and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS).

In 2024, Wolf Haven became the honored recipient of the GFAS Outstanding Wildlife Sanctuary Award for its exceptional sanctuary, education and conservation work, according to the release.

The sanctuary was reportedly chosen from over 200 worldwide.

According to the release, Wolf Haven has provided a lifetime home to over 325 animals at sanctuary locations in Tenino, Washington, and Bridger, Montana. The organization also provides educational programs, supports the restoration of wolves in historical ranges and actively discourages wolves and wolfdogs from being owned as pets.

To reserve a spot for “Sanctuary as a Mindset,” or learn about other events, visit wolfhaven.org/events.