This is Frodo, who lives at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA (WolfSanctuaryPA.org). He’s 15 years old, which means he’s both wise and a survivor — which I respect. The Sanctuary tells me he’s on medication for his older joints (join the club!!) and they’re watching a cataract forming in his right eye.
How long can wolves live? In the wild in Yellowstone National Park, wolves live on average 5-7 years, with just a few hitting the 9-year mark. They die from hunters (if they roam outside the park), other wolves, disease and old age. At the Wolf Sanctuary, they’ve eliminated the first two causes of death, and they treat the wolves for many diseases. They tell me the oldest a wolf has lived with them is 19 years(!)
I “adopted” Frodo in February 2021. You can adopt a wolf of your own. It’s just $55, which helps the Sanctuary cover costs at a time when visitor revenues are so reduced. They’ve got quite a few choices so you can pick a wolf that speaks to you. You get an adoption certificate and a great photo of your new family member. (Photo used with their permission.)