As the popularity of wolfdogs as pets became more popular in Canada, Georgina De Caigny identified the need for a knowledgeable and experienced rescue organization that would make the rehabilitation and rehoming of displaced wolfdogs a priority.
Growing up near the Stoney Reserve, Georgina was heavily involved in rescuing and rehabilitating stray dogs in her youth. She went on to graduate from the University of Calgary with a Civil Engineering degree—but after working at a sled dog kennel near Canmore that housed several wolfdogs, and then adopting her own in 2009, she knew she wanted to pursue her passion for wolfdog rescue.
In 2011, she tarted Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary on a small property near Canmore with the goal of creating a safe haven for displaced wolfdogs and stand up against the myths surrounding wolfdogs. Then, in 2014, she was able to move her organization to a 160 acre plot just outside of Cochrane where she can now house more rescued wolfdogs, and invites people to tour the Sanctuary.
“My passion for starting the Sanctuary stemmed from my love and admiration for Kuna, my first wolfdog. She opened my eyes to the challenges people face when living with true high content wolfdogs, but also how incredibly unique, amazing and compassionate they are. I wanted to make sure that no wolfdogs like Kuna would ever end up without a loving place to call home. The ultimate goal of the Sanctuary is to create widespread wolfdog awareness and advocacy as well as be that final place for wolfdogs needing rescue to call home and be truly happy and care free.”
