Washington is the perfect state for nature lovers, and that includes getting up-close-and-personal looks at the local wildlife. But luckily, you don’t actually have to go out into the unpredictable wild to do so. Washington happens to have an incredibly well-run wildlife sanctuary not many people know about, and it’s open to the public (with reservations). Predators of the Heart is a bit like a small zoo, but it’s so much better.

Predators of the Heart is located in Anacortes, spanning 10 acres.

Predators of the Heart / Facebook Founded in 1998, this sanctuary is insured and licensed by the USDA.

This place started out as a wolf sanctuary, and you’ll find plenty of them on the property.

MqBerry / TripAdvisor For whatever reason, the wolves that come here can’t be reintroduced to the wild. So they live their lives here, safe and happy.

In addition to wolves, you’ll see cougars, bobcats, birds of prey, numerous small mammals, and even reptiles.

Abby / TripAdvisor The team here is dedicated to helping these animals have the best quality of life.

Another goal of the sanctuary is to educate children and adults about wildlife, using an approach that leads to an appreciation, affection, compassion, and respect for them.

Predators of the Heart / Facebook You can do this by booking a two-hour Howling with Ambassadors Tour.

During your tour, you’ll meet Max and Kakoa and check out their new 1.4-acre enclosure.

Predators of the Heart / Facebook You’ll be able to take all the photos you want, and you’re encouraged to touch and pet the sweet wolves.

Predators of the Heart is a fantastic organization that does so much good.

Predators of the Heart / Facebook You can support them by donating money or simply by booking a tour (or both).

Doesn’t this seem like an intriguing experience? You can support Predators of the Heart with a donation, or treat yourself to a Howling with Ambassadors Tour on Airbnb Experiences.

Predators of the Heart / Facebook

Founded in 1998, this sanctuary is insured and licensed by the USDA.

MqBerry / TripAdvisor

For whatever reason, the wolves that come here can’t be reintroduced to the wild. So they live their lives here, safe and happy.

Abby / TripAdvisor

The team here is dedicated to helping these animals have the best quality of life.

You can do this by booking a two-hour Howling with Ambassadors Tour.

You’ll be able to take all the photos you want, and you’re encouraged to touch and pet the sweet wolves.

You can support them by donating money or simply by booking a tour (or both).

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Predators of the Heart / Wolf Encounters, 4709 Welch Ln, Anacortes, WA 98221, USA