Welcome to Salish Wildlife Rescue!

Why the name change?

From the very beginning, our name reflected our origin story. In 1981, veterinarian Jessica Porter opened a clinic in Friday Harbor, Washington, then surrounded by fields and woodland. Early in her career, Jessica had worked with wolves, inspiring her to name the practice Wolf Hollow Veterinary Clinic. In March 1982, the clinic received its first wild patient, a Great Horned Owl. Word quickly spread that Jessica had experience caring for both domestic animals and wildlife. By the end of that year, 11 wild animals had been treated. Recognizing a growing need for dedicated wildlife care, Jessica made a pivotal decision. In 1983, Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center was born. In its first year alone, 32 wild animals were treated alongside the clinic’s domestic patients.

As the need continued to grow, so did the number of animals in care. Within a few years, it became clear that a larger, more suitable space was necessary. In 1986, the rehabilitation center moved to its current location on Boyce Road, providing the room needed to deliver professional care to injured and orphaned wildlife. Over the years, one question surfaced again and again: “Why are you called Wolf Hollow when you don’t care for wolves?” or “There are no wolves on the island.” In recent years, we have heard this almost daily. During our recent organizational restructuring, the board took a closer look at this question. After thoughtful discussion, research, and conversations with tribal community members, a new name emerged, one that better reflects both our mission and our place: Salish Wildlife Rescue.

We know that in a close-knit community, names carry history. Many will continue to call us Wolf Hollow, and we understand. Change takes time, and we’re still getting used to it ourselves. Over the coming months, you may see both names as we transition to our website, materials, and signage. Like a caterpillar in its chrysalis, this process may feel a bit messy at times, but soon, something new will emerge and take flight. Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we save wildlife. 

Thank you,

Chanda Stone, Executive Director, Salish Wildlife Rescue