Wolves are fascinating. Their legendary howl helps them communicate with their tight-knit pack, they cooperate with each other like no other species, they have the ability to adapt to extreme temperatures, and best of all, they’re highly intelligent. Although my interest in wolves delves deep, I would still be terrified if I came across one in the wild. That’s why when I saw an opportunity to interact with domesticated wolves, I jumped on it.
I booked an appointment at Howling Woods Farm for Ray and I to visit the wolves during their prime time: January - the depth of winter. Unlike humans, wolves love the cold. They thrive in temperatures as low as -70 degrees, while humans tend to suffer from S.A.D. Seasonal Affective Disorder while living in anything below 40. I wish we could all be as happy as they are in the winter.
When the big day finally came, Ray and I suited up in our winter coats to make some new furry friends. Howling Woods Farm was only 15 minutes from Ray’s house in Columbus, NJ, so we didn’t have to travel far. Just moments after walking into the building, we were greeted by two giant, burly wolves held on leashes. Timid at first, I did not approach. But, I observed how they interacted with other guests in the room and soon realized they were only massive cuddly dogs.
I stood and called for their attention with a wave of my hand. An old and scary, dark-furred wolf named Samson made his way toward me. He endearingly leaned into me and smiled, tongue out, as I pet him behind the ears and on the back. His vast body collapsed onto the floor, startling me. But he just wanted a belly rub!
Samson and many of the other wolves at Howling Woods Farm are wolf dogs. They are varying percentages of both wolf and dog, so many of them behave as any other friendly pet would while others with more wolf in their blood interact in a more primitive manner.
Ray and I loved our visit! We interacted with all the animals outside and got to learn a lot about the wolf lifestyle. It was a fantastic experience. Not only because I got to pet these majestic creatures, but also because they taught me how to make the most of the cold climate, to be happy, and to fight what was causing me to be S.A.D.
Here’s what I learned:
Keep warm:
In the winter, wolves grow an outer coat of long, stiff hairs called “guard hairs." They also have an “undercoat” of soft fur which grows thick in the winter to help insulate their bodies from the cold. As a cold-blooded human, I’m always freezing. But, I’m also stubborn and lazy. I don’t want to wear tons of layers, and this contributes to my S.A.D.ness. Being cold sucks, but if I learn from the wolves and just put the right amount of layers on, I’ll feel better!
Go outside:
Wolves thrive in the cold temperatures. When we visited Howling Woods Farms, the ground was covered in snow. Rather than avoiding it as most humans would, the wolves rolled and bounced around it in. We, humans, need to learn to embrace the cold temperatures rather than avoid them. We need to get outside, hike, ski, snowmobile, ice skate, and experience life no matter the climate. It’s doing us no good hiding inside.
Indulge:
Wolves love cheese. And some at Howling Woods Farm even enjoy Fig Newtons! Many of us humans are attempting to keep our New Year’s resolutions by eating healthy and refraining from indulgences. While I admire this, I don’t believe we should completely phase out everything that makes us happy. Seasonal Affective Disorder is real, and you shouldn’t punish yourself for wanting to improve who you are. So, indulge a little bit every once and awhile, especially if it makes you happy. Get that CHEEZE!
Hang with your pack:
I used to think that wolves were loners. You know, the “lone wolf." But, they aren’t that individualistic. They are loyal AF to their pack and stick together. They work as a team and operate under a strict social hierarchy that helps them all survive. From this, I learned that I need to quit retreating to the dark den that is my bed after work. Instead, I need to hang out with my pack. Spending time with friends and having higher levels of social interaction is proven to boost your mood. So don’t let the cold keep you from your friends!
Stay positive:
Last of all, be a beacon of light in everything that you do. Wolves do what they have to do until it gets done and you don’t hear them complaining about it. So find your groove this winter, stick to it, and remain positive. Life is excellent, wolves are great, and so are you!
If you’re interested in visiting the wolves at Howling Woods Farm book your appointments by calling 732-534-5745 or visit their website here. It’s only $20 to visit, and all proceeds go feeding and protecting the wolf dogs living at the preserve.
Howling Woods Farm
1371 W Veteran Hwy
Jackson, NJ 08527
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