All dogs are descended from wolves, and the two species still share a lot in common. In fact, it is possible for dogs and wolves to mate, resulting in hybrid “wolfdogs.”
But ownership of wolf-dog hybrids has long been a contentious issue, and has been the subject of many laws and regulations throughout the US.
That was a problem for a dog named Zeus, who is believed to be one-third wolf, making it illegal for him to be adopted as a pet in his home state of Rhode Island.
His friends at the Potter League for Animals began a search to find Zeus a home somewhere in the US where wolf hybrids are not banned. Now, in a happy update, Zeus has found a home.
Zeus’ search for a home
In a January 5 Facebook post, the Potter League said they believed Zeus was one-third Husky, one-third German Shepherd and one-third wolf. They shared photos, in which Zeus’ wolf-like features were evident.
But despite being part “wild animal,” Zeus was described as a good dog who would make a perfect pet for the right person.
“Zeus is about as fine a canine specimen as you could possibly imagine,” they wrote. “He is wonderfully magical to watch as he walks. His movements are mesmerizing, and he looks like he just walked out of a scene from Twilight (yes, we just went there). He is incredibly affectionate and silly, and loves to be pet, snuggled, and loved on.”
Wolf-dog hybrids illegal in many states
Many states prohibit or restrict wolf hybrid ownership. Rhode Island is one of the states that prohibits wolfdogs, as do nearby states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire and New York.
But others do allow ownership, and the rescue hoped that Zeus’ story would spread far enough that he would find an interested adopter who lived in a legal state.
Zeus soon went viral. In a January 6 update, the rescue said that they had received “many applications” after the story was “shared far & wide.”
Zeus adopted
Now, in an inspiring update to the story, Zeus has found a home!
Ron Monroe was one of the people who saw Zeus’ story and became interested in adopting. He lives in Vermont, one of the closest US states that allows wolf-dog ownership.
When he met Zeus, he knew it was meant to be. “As soon as I saw him in person my heart melted,” Monroe told Newsweek. “He is such a sweet boy.”
The results of a DNA test confirmed that Zeus is in fact at least part wolf, but far from seeing that as something dangerous, Monroe says it makes Zeus beautiful and unique.
“The part-wolf aspect is amazing,” he said. “People are drawn to him because of his looks and he is very friendly to everyone… In the long run he is going to thrive and be loved by all.”
For the Potter League for Animals, who worked so hard to find Zeus a home despite the odds, it was incredibly welcome news, and they thanked all their followers who shared Zeus’ story.
“Thank you to everyone who shared Zeus far and wide!” they wrote on Facebook. “We are truly humbled and moved by the support and the love everyone showed Zeus the last few weeks. We’ve said it before, but to this community that lifts us, that cheers us on, that enriches our lives – thank you.”
“Happiest of Tails to Zeus!”
Congratulations to Zeus on finding a home! While many states ban wolf-dog hybrids, it’s clear that Zeus is a great animal and going to be an amazing pet.
Please share this incredible news!
