How to Locate a Vet That Will Treat a Pet Wolf

It may be a challenge to locate a vet that will treat a pet wolf, since the vast majority of veterinarians widely discourage people from trying to own them. By selecting the right resources, however, you will be able to find reliable medical care for your animal. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Locate a Vet to Treat a Pet Wolf

1. Talk to a veterinarian who specializes in the treatment of exotic animals. Even though she may not have any specific experience with wolves, she may be more willing to see the animal than a traditional vet.
2. Contact a vet who specializes in the treatment of wolfdogs or other types of wolf hybrids. He will certainly have more experience in treating wolves, and if he does have any reservations about treating a pure wolf, he might be able to refer you to someone who doesn't.
3. Locate a wolf or wolfdog rescue organization, such as the National Wolfdog Alliance, and find out if they can refer a vet to you who will treat your pet wolf (see Resources below).
4. Expect to be turned down by a variety of veterinarians before you find the right one for you and your pet. Most owners of wolves and wolfdogs report that the best way to locate a vet is to simply compile a list of every vet in the area and call them one by one.
5. Make sure you have located a vet that will treat a wolf before you obtain one for a pet. Take a meeting with your potential vet and inform him about the type of wolf you are looking to buy and how you should care for it.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you keep all medical records, vaccination schedules and appropriate permits or licenses for owning an exotic pet before you contact a vet. Usually he will ask to see all of the appropriate documentation before he agrees to treat your pet wolf.
• Beware of vets who charge double or triple their usual rates for wolves or wolfdogs--they may not be sympathetic to ownership of such animals.
• Don't take it personally if you are turned down by a vet for treatment of your pet wolf. In many cases, it may be a matter of their insurance not covering the risks associated with wild or exotic animals. Always thank them for their time, ask them for a referral, and move on to the next name on your list.