Steve and Riggs share an extraordinary relationship, one that stands out not just because Steve is a human and Riggs is a real wolf, but also because of their unique interactions.
They kiss each other on the nose, nibble affectionately, and playfully roughhouse like a wild pair.
However, Riggs’ life hasn’t always been filled with such affection and safety.
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The Wandering Wolf
The Apex Protection Project, based in Los Angeles, is dedicated to rescuing wild animals, particularly wolves and wolf-dogs.
Since its inception in 2015, the organization has rescued more than 400 captive-born wolves and wolf-dogs.
Riggs is one of their success stories. He escaped from his owner and traveled 80 kilometers to Oklahoma.
However, survival was tough for Riggs as animals born in captivity lack the necessary skills to thrive in the wild. He survived by scavenging through garbage dumps and finding dog food in backyards.
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Riggs is one of their success stories. He escaped from his owner and traveled 80 kilometers to Oklahoma.
However, survival was tough for Riggs as animals born in captivity lack the necessary skills to thrive in the wild. He survived by scavenging through garbage dumps and finding dog food in backyards.
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After weeks of wandering, Riggs was picked up by animal control in an illegal area and faced euthanasia within 48 hours.
Thankfully, the Apex Protection Project was alerted to his situation. After a 19-hour drive, they rescued Riggs just in time.
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Adding to his story, Riggs is a melanistic or “black phase” wolf, meaning his fur is streaked with black, a rarity compared to the traditional grey wolf.
Interestingly, his fur will gradually turn grey as he ages, much like human hair.
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Back among people, Riggs found his favorite person in Steve. Their bond is akin to a father-son relationship.
They play hide and seek, do agility training together, and love to cuddle. Steve affectionately describes Riggs as “cunning and moody” with a “Peter Pan complex.”
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“He doesn’t want to be anyone’s boss, but he doesn’t want anyone to be his boss either,” Steve shares in a video.
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h/t animalchannel.co
