Wildlife charity Wildwood Trust in Kent said it was “deeply saddened” at the decision to euthanise all five wolves after three were seriously injured, causing the pack’s dynamics to break down.
A wildlife charity has revealed it had “with no choice” but to euthanise its pack of wolves.
The Wildwood Trust in Kent said staff were “deeply saddened at the difficult decision” they were compelled to take after three of the five wolves sustained serious injuries. The charity explained the injuries led to a breakdown in the pack’s dynamics, creating growing concerns for the animals’ safety and quality of life, reports the Mirror.
Paul Whitfield, Director General of the Wildwood Trust, described it as an incredibly challenging period for everyone at the organisation. “Our keepers care hugely about these animals and did everything they could to find a way forward,” he said.
“Wolves are highly social animals that live within complex family structures, and when those dynamics break down, conflict and rejection can increase. In this case, it led to ongoing welfare concerns and an unacceptable risk of serious injury.
“Euthanasia is never taken lightly, but in responsible animal care it can sometimes be the most humane option when welfare can no longer be maintained.”
“This decision was an absolute last resort, with the animals’ welfare as our priority. It’s incredibly difficult, but it was ultimately the right thing to do to prevent further suffering.”
The Wildwood Trust, which runs a woodland discovery park in Herne, near Canterbury, enlisted experienced keepers and veterinary professionals in an attempt to stabilise the group, but it became apparent they could no longer coexist. Experienced keepers and veterinary professionals monitored the situation and made regular assessments of the wolves – but they found that the animals’ quality of life significantly deteriorated and could not be improved to an acceptable level.
The heartbreaking decision was taken to put the wolves to sleep, an action deemed to be in their best interests. A spokesperson added: “The Trust would like to thank visitors and supporters for their understanding at what is a very difficult time.”
Wildwood Trust woodland discovery park is home to numerous species of native and historically native British animals. Spanning 40 acres of woodland in Kent, the animals are housed in spacious, natural enclosures.
The collection includes bears, wolves, bison, elk, badgers, arctic foxes, wild boar, deer, lynx, wildcat, owls, storks, and snakes, according to the Wildwood Trust website.
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