For Valentine’s Day this year, my husband got us a meet and greet with wolves. We trekked out to Wolf Park in Battle Ground, Indiana, for an incredible morning with incredibly misunderstood animals. Wolves are one of the top predators who, due to loss of land, have turned to hunting livestock and coming uncomfortably close to human habitat. At one point, grey wolves were hunted so severely that they earned a spot on the endangered species list.

After being briefed on wolf etiquette and safety precautions our guide, Pat, took us for a tour around the park to see not only wolves, but 2 coyotes, 2 foxes, and 10 bison. In the spring, Wolf Park welcomed 6 new pups, born to wolfmom Dharma. We spent a great deal of time watching the now 15 week old pups have playtime with their grandma, Erin.

We first visited with Tristan, a male, and Ayla, a female. Both wolves greeted us at the airlock of the enclosure and followed us to a wooden stoop, where we sat as guests in their home. After a few minutes, Ayla approached us. I held out my hands so she could access whether or not I was worthy to touch her, and after shoving her wet nose into my hands I felt it was ok to give her a little scratch under her muzzle. I brought my face close to hers and she gave me several eager kisses on my cheeks and nose.

Next we visited with Chetan, at 17-year old male with ash white fur and an exceptionally gentle demeanor. He came out from his den, and we crouched down so he could take us in. He was very fond of my husband, spending lots of time getting rubs and scratches, and giving him tons of kisses on his face. He greeted me with kisses too, and let me scratch his side and underneath his muzzle. He was definitely my favorite.

The meet and greet included adoptions; we chose Tristan and Chetan. I hope that sooner than later we can return to visit our new furry friends.