'Settling in beautifully': Wolf-like pups rescued in Preston begin to thrive at specialist centre
The three wolf-like animals found roaming Preston in October are “settling in beautifully,” according to their new rescue centre.
Wolves of Wiltshire, also known as the registered charity The Little Zoo, shared an update on December 7 showing the pups beginning to interact confidently in their new surroundings.
In the post, the centre said: “The pups are settling in so beautifully. They’re still nervous around us humans, but today they finally felt safe enough to play.
“Watching them let their guard down, even just a little, absolutely melted my heart.”
The charity added that its team is “doing everything possible to ensure these puppies finally feel safe and loved,” and thanked supporters for donations helping towards their ongoing care.
A dramatic journey from Preston streets to specialist care
The story first gained widespread attention on October 30 when members of the public reported seeing three wolf-like animals wandering near Station Lane, Newsham.
Police were called and specialist dog handlers secured the animals, initially described as “wolf-type dogs”.
Amid a flurry of online speculation - and even Halloween-themed jokes from the police - the animals were later handed to Preston City Council, where a vet confirmed they were a German Shepherd-type dog, not wolves.
The council said the animals would be cared for while attempts were made to trace an owner, and if unclaimed, they would be rehomed.
They were subsequently transferred to husky rescue charity 8 Below, which disclosed the pups - named Boo, Brooke and Little Timmy - were severely underweight and required urgent veterinary attention.
The case later prompted a wave of online abuse and even death threats directed at 8 Below staff, a situation the rescue described as “devastating and unacceptable”.
Wolves of Wiltshire takes over rehabilitation
In early December, Wolves of Wiltshire announced the pups had joined them to continue their rehabilitation.
In a December 5 update, the organisation described them as wolf-hybrids, though authorities have previously stated the animals are German Shepherd-type dogs.
The centre said the pups were “emaciated and frightened” when first rescued, but were already showing progress following specialist care and a suitable diet.
It added that their behaviour suggested they would require ongoing, experienced handling.
‘A brighter, happier future’
Sunday’s update showed signs of fresh optimism.
The rescue wrote: “Your donations, no matter the size, go directly toward helping pups in need.
“Thank you for being part of their journey toward a brighter, happier future.”
To find out more about Wolves of Wiltshire, visit: https://www.wolvesofwiltshire.co.uk/