Wolf-Dog Pair Join Popcorn Park

FORKED RIVER, NJ — Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Forked River has welcomed Balto and Coyote, a bonded pair of wolf-dogs, marking the return of wolf-heritage animals to the sanctuary for the first time in more than three decades.

The refuge announced the pair's arrival Friday. According to the announcement, the last time Popcorn Park cared for wolf-type species, including timber wolves, was in the late 1980s.

Balto is described by the refuge as a male with orange eyes and a thick coat who has quickly settled into his outdoor space. Coyote, his companion, is more reserved, according to the announcement, and has shown growing curiosity as she becomes more comfortable in her new surroundings.

The refuge said wolf-dogs can look like domestic dogs but have strong wild instincts and need specialized care, space and enrichment. According to the announcement, they do not seek affection in the same way as traditional pets, and many are abandoned or surrendered when owners cannot meet their needs.

“Welcoming Balto and Coyote is especially meaningful, as it’s been more than 30 years since we’ve had wolf-heritage animals at the Refuge. Their story is an important reminder that animals like these are often bred without a full understanding of their complexity and needs. We’re proud to provide them with the specialized care, space, and lifelong home they deserve,” said Cory Scott, director of Popcorn Park Animal Refuge.

The pair was brought to Popcorn Park with help from a rescue partner in western North Carolina, according to the announcement. The refuge said the rescue recognized the animals' specialized needs and worked to secure them and place them in a lifelong setting equipped for their care.

At Popcorn Park, Balto and Coyote now receive veterinary care, species-appropriate diets and enrichment designed to support their natural behaviors, according to the announcement. Their arrival also points to a broader issue described by the refuge.

According to the announcement, limited sanctuary space and the challenges of proper care mean many captive-bred wolf-dogs do not survive beyond a few years, not because they are aggressive, but because there are not enough qualified homes or sanctuaries available.

Supporters can help provide for Balto, Coyote and the more than 200 animals living at Popcorn Park by making a donation or sponsoring an animal through the Wildlife Club. More information is available at AHSCares.org.