Models for Wolves
DISCLAIMER:
Many animal rights activists have expressed concern with the use of the wolves in pictures with our models. I have stood by many causes in the fight for rights with animals, and the wolves are definitely no exception. Obviously I have a deep love for the creatures, hence the organization being founded in the first place. I admit that I take an unorthodox approach to things, and not everyone will agree with the Models for Wolves campaign. However, it is of my upmost concern how the wolves are treated. The only sanctuary to date that we have collaborated with on this project is Wolf Creek Habitat. It is a rescue sanctuary in Indiana that focuses a lot on wolf education efforts. If I may give you a quote from their website:
"It is important to let you know that this is an Educational Facility and our goal is to teach what we can, so that you may further understand the life of a wolf. We want to be sure that you understand that most of the wolves here came from sanctuaries like ours or from individuals that could no longer care for them. They would have otherwise been euthanized. They will live their lives out here at Wolf Creek and we will continue to do the best we can to give them the best life until they cross over."
The purpose of my approach is to get the attention of a wider range of people, not just those already interested in animal rights. The Models for Wolves shoot is definitely proving to do that and is giving us great opportunities to educate people about wolf conservation and the importance of the wolf. Because of this approach, we will be selling backgrounds and applications on the IPhone, gotten magazines to run articles and pictures, and started nationwide projects all from the Models for Wolves campaign.
I stand beside all of you on reducing animal cruelty and would never endorse a project that promoted cruelty in any way shape or form. I would not endorse the "use" of any animal for entertainment purposes. Being somewhat "domesticated" as rescues, they actually crave the human interaction and LOVE visitors. Our shots are blindingly obvious parodies of such wolf lore as Little Red Riding Hood and Little Bo Peep to bring to light the ridiculousness of these tales. Believe it or not, these wolves are not trained nor are they asked or expected to pose. They interact freely with the models and the shots that are taken are the wolves being their loving selves. Thus it is not aimed to downplay their nature or their instinct either.
