How to Protect Pets From Wolves

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Stay with your pets. Wolves are less likely to attack pets accompanied by a person because this will make it more difficult for them to approach undetected. If your animals are in a fenced-in enclosure or barn, check on them periodically throughout the night so that any animals watching from a distance are aware of your presence. If your pets do not have their own enclosed space, walk with them after dark instead of letting them go out on their own.
Step 2:
Make some noise. Many farmers leave music on for their livestock because they say it helps their animals feel comforted through the night. Wolves are spooked by loud noise and are deterred by the sound of human voices so leaving a radio playing in your barn or pet enclosure can also help protect your pets. You can also keep an air horn on hand for wolf sightings; a blast on the air horn will send them running and decrease the chances of them returning.
Step 3:
Watch out for easy targets. If you have many pets or a large number of livestock animals, pay special attention to young or baby animals, old and slow animals, and any pets or animals that are slow or physically impaired. Babies and feeble animals are less capable of defending themselves and are a prime target for wolves. Keep a head count of these animals and make sure they have made it in for the night with the rest of your pets.
Step 4:
Keep things clean. Wolves are more likely to target your pets if they can smell a lot of waste or food and scraps which are both indicative of there being many animals available to attack. To help deter them, clean barns and pet areas regularly and limit the amount of food you leave out for pets. Consider using a pet odor neutralizer as well, as this will help mask the smells.
Step 5:
Talk to your local wildlife office. The chances of a wolf attacking a human are slim, but they are still wild animals so know how to protect your pets while keeping yourself safe. Talk to your local animal control office or wildlife authority and find out more ways to humanely deal with wolves.
Step 6:
Be kind. Many species of wolf were near extinction at one point because they were viewed as such a threat to pets and livestock that farmers shot them on sight. Remember that the wolf is an animal just like your pet, and they are just trying to feed themselves and their pups. When taking steps to protect your pets from wolves, use methods that are effective but humane.

Resources

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