We rescue and provide sanctuary to exotic animals bred in captivity. Our mission is to care for these animals in the best way possible while in captivity, educate the community about these animals and how we need to protect and preserve them in the wild, and create empathy for them in this disposable society where everything can be thrown away…including animals and children.

Our programs focus on responsibility, learning about those around you, respecting personal space and differences, and kindness. We work with children of all ages as well as at-risk children and adults in probation. The animals have a lot to teach us, if we choose to listen.                             
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and you will know each other.

If you do not talk to them you will not know them,

and what you do not know you will fear.

What one fears – one destroys.”

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The year 2001 saw the formation of Shy Wolf Sanctuary, Education and Experience Center, Inc. a Florida Nonprofit Incorporation.  Shy Wolf is also recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax exempt corporation by the Internal Revenue Service. 

Nancy Smith has been offering sanctuary and a home to exotic, stray and injured animals since 1993. The expense of caring for these animals had been carried by Nancy and her husband, Kent, for many years. Michael Kloman read about Nancy and her wolves in a local paper in November 1999.  It wasn't long before he was mentioning "Shy Wolf Sanctuary", a name given informally by Michael, at the local dog park where he took his wolfdog Nakipa.  November 2000 brought Deanna Deppen for a visit after meeting Michael and Nakipa at the local pet store. She strongly urged Nancy and Michael to form a non-profit corporation in order to accept donations of materials, food, and to seek grants.  With her enthusiasm and connections she was able to get both local newspapers and the television news to do a story, along with a spot on a live TV morning news show.  Michael took advantage of two local talk radio shows to bring Shy Wolf Sanctuary from being known by word of mouth to a broad radio market, further expanding local knowledge and support of the animals.  

January 19th, 2001, is the official "birthday" of Shy Wolf  Sanctuary, Education and Experience Center, Inc., (SWS) a Florida non-profit and 501(c)(3) tax exempt corporation.  SWS is licensed and inspected by Collier County Domestic Animal Services (DAS), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Nancy, Kent, and many dedicated volunteers over the years have built enclosures, cleaned, maintained the facility and lovingly cared for the animals…all while sharing their love and knowledge of the animals with surrounding Southwest Florida communities through outreach and educational programs.  Resident animals educate thousands of people each year with many guests returning each time they visit Naples or have company.  We whole-heartedly thank the businesses, communities, and individuals that have supported us through the years and made it possible to continue our mission!