FAQ's

Please plan ahead, especially for holidays, school breaks and the high season winter months in southwest Florida.

Come and learn about the many species of animals, the lessons they have to share and experience them up close and personal while celebrating their birthday, rescue anniversary or another special day. We are 100% donor supported! Children MUST be at least 7 years of age.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT ~ FOR THE ANIMALS! 

ITINERARY:

Guests will gather on the back patio for an initial introduction to the sanctuary, how we came to exist, our mission and purpose, and the importance of lessons learned. After the introduction, guests will be escorted through the winding foliage-covered paths of the sanctuary.

SPECIES SEEN WILL INCLUDE: foxes, prairie dog, coyotes, wolves, wolfdogs, gopher tortoises and a cougar. More curious animals may approach the fence and guests are welcome to photograph them. 

WEATHER: We celebrate our animals, rain or shine, as long as the weather is not too bad. Lightning would obviously result in cancellation or at least a delay. Storms pass quickly and are so scattered in Florida that we recommend you plan on showing up regardless of what the weather is at home.

WHAT TO BRING:

DRESS: casual, long pants and close-toed shoes recommended (walking shoes NOT flipflops or sandals). Some may wish to wear a hat, sunscreen, or bug spray. Plan to get dirty if you choose to interact with the animals. It is recommended to bring water. This is especially important on hot summer days!

Bring lots of ENTHUSIASM and a CAMERA! Photos are encouraged as long as they are for personal use only.

NOTE:  Professional photographers or amateurs wishing to utilize images of our Residents need to get staff approval in advance.

RULES:

Shy Wolf Sanctuary, Education & Experience Center, Inc., is by reservation ONLY. We are closed on Tuesday and Thursday. We are closed the month of August because it is just too hot.

“Drop-In” guests will NOT be accommodated, as we are on a very strict schedule with the animals.

KIDS:

Children MUST be at least 7 years of age.  We do offer off-site visits on a limited basis if you have a group of younger children that might wish to interact with one of our ambassadors.

There must be at least one adult for every three children under the age of 10 years old.

LIABILITY WAIVER:

By visiting the sanctuary or interacting with our animals on or off-premise, you (each guest) are acknowledging that there is always a certain level of “risk of injury”, be it from a fall or an animal’s toenail, and you are waiving any liability rights for the Shy Wolf Sanctuary, Education & Experience Center, Inc., its volunteers, staff, and its Board of Directors. Furthermore, you agree to all follow all rules and directions the volunteer guides will present at the time of the visit.

ACCESSIBILITY:

The front of the sanctuary has wooden walkways and the back part is sand. We do offer lots of shade and benches upon which to rest. The sanctuary is located on 2.5 acres and you will be walking through the entire visit. Most visits are about 2 hours of casual walking with periodic stops as you visit or learn about various residents. Smaller wheelchairs and walkers may be accommodated.

GROUPS:

ON-SITE: Groups can join one of the regularly scheduled visits. Maximum number of guests per visit is 12 guests. Visitors wanting to attend as a group will need to check the schedule to ensure there is room for your entire group. The event will include a 2 hour guided visit and a talk by one of our trained guides. Private visits are available. Please contact us if you are interested in a private visit. To book a private event, please contact support@shywolfsanctuary.org.

OFF-SITE:  We are more than happy to offer a presentation to learn more about the work we do. Ambassador animals may be available to attend depending on your location. To inquire about booking an educational program presentation please email education@shywolfsanctuary.org.

Still have a question?

If you still have questions feel free to email us!