La Plata County Humane Society named Paula Woerner, Wolfwood Refuge owner and director, as the recipient of the 2017 Animal Advocate of the Year award Oct. 28, during its annual “Bark and Wine” fundraiser at the DoubleTree Hotel.
Wolfwood Refuge is an Ignacio-based wolf and wolf-hybrid sanctuary created in 1995, after Woerner rescued her first wolf, named Winslow. The refuge currently supplies wolf-habitat enclosures for 60 animals, many of which often arrive with injuries and behavioral issues that are treated and rehabilitated.
“We were so honored to present the 2017 Animal Advocate of the Year to Paula Woerner,” Michelle Featheringill, LPCHS executive director, said in a news release. “She is a true hero to all of the animals who come into her care.”
Woerner provides free tours for visitors and works with regional nonprofits to support the sanctuary through community donations and fundraising events.
