Howly Wolfenoot!
If that greeting seems nonsensical to you, then you clearly don’t know about one of the world’s most awesome holidays, Wolfenoot! Taking place on November 23rd of each year, this holiday was invented by a seven-year-old in New Zealand a few years back. After his mom posted about it online, it took off. In the years since it’s become an internet sensation and raised lots of money for animal charities along the way.
You can read more in-depth about the story of Wolfenoot at the official website here. There’s even a picture book published about the holiday! But here are some highlights:
- November 23rd is the anniversary of the great wolf’s death, hence why we celebrate Wolfenoot today instead of on a full moon.
- The official Wolfenoot greeting is, “Have a Howly Wolfenoot!”
- Celebrations consist of eating roast meat (since that’s what wolves eat) and being friendly to dogs and wolves. However, the holiday’s progenitor assures the world that vegetarians are more than welcome to celebrate Wolfenoot anyway.
- You’re encouraged to give to dog/wolf charities but otherwise celebrate in whatever way seems most fitting to your household.
- My co-worker’s mom was born on what would later become Wolfenoot. How sad to have one’s birthday overshadowed by such an important holiday!
Having only recently learned about Wolfenoot, I haven’t had much time to plan any celebrations myself. However, Andy will probably be getting a special Wolfenoot treat today. I also thought it would be nice to give everyone some ideas for charities to support in honor of the holiday.
Note that not all the charities below are about dogs/wolves, and they are local/regional to where I live. However, if you don’t feel like giving to these fine organizations, in particular, use them as examples to find something local to you that you can donate to.
1. The Red Desert Humane Society
Based in my hometown of Rock Springs, this organization has been helping find homes for pets since I was a kid. I adopted most of my dogs through them, and their dedication to the welfare of the animals under their care is admirable. Dad and I play in their charity golf tournament most years.
2. Second Chance to Dance Dachshund Rescue
Another dog rescue in Southwest Wyoming, focusing specifically on Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes. As my own late Jack was part Dachshund and that particular portion of his DNA came through the strongest, they’re near and dear to my heart. These lovely folks take in many pets with severe medical issues and need all the support they can get.
Click here to donate money or an item from their wishlist!
3. Rocky Mountain Raptor Program
Come on; you knew they were going to be on here! I wrote a book about the ultimate bird of prey, and I’ve given away raptor adoptions through them in giveaways. Of course, the RMRP was going to be on this list. The work they do is important not just for the raptors themselves but also for our ecosystems in the west. Apex predators like raptors not only help control populations of other animals, they help maintain essential biodiversity among different species and a slew of other positive impacts.
Click here to see their Amazon Wishlist!
4. Mountain Shadows Equine Revival
I recently learned about this fabulous organization through a very dear friend of mine who happens to be on their board. This organization is a rescue for horses, seeking to break a troubling cycle of “problem” horses being sent to feedlots.
Mountain Shadows Equine Revival is 100% volunteer operated. How awesome is that? By working with these animals, these loving men and women have managed to take many abused or neglected creatures from untouchable to ride-able. Rehabilitation for these majestic creatures is a real gift.
And check it out; one of their current rescues is named Tolkien because he looks like a Lord of the Rings horse! Please, one of my fellow fantasy enthusiasts, sponsor this beautiful giant!
