History
Gaia came to us from Colorado, rescued from an animal shelter when she was just a pup. For the first year of her life, she lived with a vet student up at SCU along with another wolf-dog who eventually was euthanized because of aggression. Gaia was not doing well alone and her owner felt that she could not give Gaia the time she needed to ease her loneliness. We had been looking for a companion for King and when we got the call about Gaia, we decided to accept her.
Big Pack in the Sky
Rest in Peace
January 16, 1997 - March 18, 2011
It was always difficult for us to believe Gaia was getting older; her loving personality and energetic attitude captivated volunteers and guests alike. Suddenly, before our eyes, Gaia became an old lady fighting against stiff hips and a weakened immune system. It wasn't long until Gaia began having trouble moving around her enclosure, and her appetite quickly diminished. Despite her complications, Gaia appeared in good spirits, still greeting volunteers who entered her enclosure. However, we knew her time was coming to an end. On Friday morning, surrounded by staff and volunteers who loved her dearly, Gaia passed away.
Jan B.
Ron C.
Wotan and Lynne H.
Rebecca G.
Jens M.
Paula H.
Gail E.
Mary S.
Richard B.
Annie T.
Profile
Bio: Gaia was a low-content wolf-dog.
Personality: In her early days, Gaia would have been a prime candidate for adoption. However, she lived the rest of her life with us at the Sanctuary. She loved attention from all people and would frequently roll over for belly rubs or paw at her caretaker to get their attention. Although she lived with the much larger Oscar, Gaia was clearly the one in charge and was not afraid to move Oscar away from her favorite person.
Likes: Tennis balls, catching ravens, and racing full speed around her enclosure.
Dislikes: Not getting enough attention, her neighbor Luna, and her fur getting "plucked" when she sheds in spring.
Fun Fact: Gaia's previous companion before Oscar was a wolf named King. King was notorious for being one of the most difficult animals to work with due to his wild spirit and fierce personality. While no human could enter his enclosure, Gaia had no trouble wrapping him around her little paw. King worshipped Gaia and let her get away with things that were seemingly intolerable from anyone else.
