Meet Mary Ann McCain of Song of The Wolf Healing Center in Bailey

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Ann McCain.

Mary Ann, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a licensed therapist and been in the field of mental health for 30+ years. My primary focus has on addiction issues. I am in recovery from addiction and have 36 years of abstinence. My path has provided many spiritual experiences that have allowed me to be a channel for healing for others in their suffering. Animals, particularly wolf-dogs, have been a huge, magical part of my healing. I have worked with these beautiful animals for over 20 years and have provided this service to individuals interested in learning more about their presence in the world and how these animals have experienced the same wounds as humans due to ignorance and domination.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
One of our biggest challenges is finances and being able to move forward with our mission. It does seem that resources come when they are needed, however at 63 years old, I am still working to make sure we have what is needed for the animals and humans taking care of these beautiful creatures. As a non-profit, it requires much time, energy, and resources. Currently, it is me and primary caretaker, David Parker. We also have two Advisors for Song of The Wolf Healing Center. We receive many of our donations from visitors and community donations of food; however, due to the health crisis, these sources have been non-existent.

Please tell us about Song of The Wolf Healing Center.
Our business is to create a sacred, healing space for all who enter. The Land sits on 14 acres of beautiful mountain terrain. The Land is a healing container of Mother Earth, and the animals are a part of this container. Sage grows in all corners of this sacred land and purifies on a consistent basis, and the trees hold their own special energy. Each animal has its own special gift, as do humans. Animals “know” who they are and what they came here to do on this plane of existence. Humans do not always know or have forgotten.

Aala, our Alpha female, represents “hunter and healer.” She likes to scent rub and clean you off, offer you affection and love in a wolf manner.

Kamali is Aala’s brother. His name represents “gentle and Spirit Guide”. He is a large Alpha male and loves to play. He has a way of bringing humans into the present moment.

Otomi is our fierce warrior. He trusts very few humans and has never been a part of a pack, human or otherwise. He is anxious and paces in his habitat. He does observe his pack interacting with humans and is becoming less fearful.

Shadow Girl is young a full of energy. She likes to come up behind you and be your shadow.

Bodhi is an enlightened being. He is an Artic wolf-dog. He has a soft soul and is afraid of most movements. Once he trusts you, he will shower you with kisses. He loves to play.

Cree has a regal air about him and likes to be in charge, however, he too, is very sensitive and afraid at times. He pushes boundaries with other pack members and is put in his place many times.

All animals are territorial and honor their space. They have no problem giving you warning signs as to what the boundaries are in their homes. You do not touch things that do not belong to you. When people come to visit and sit inside their habitats, I always ask, “what story do you want them to know about you?” I hear many times from individuals, “my mind stops racing and I am present. It is a relief to just slow down and not have my brain racing.” In my observations, I also see individuals turn into children again, laughing and allowing an innocent curiosity to be their guiding force.

Several addiction treatment centers come to Song of The Wolf and engage in work projects. This gives individuals the experience of taking ownership of something that is larger than themselves. Many humans who are suffering have lost the ability to feel good about themselves and do not feel they have anything to contribute to the world. Work projects begin re-introducing those basic core concepts of contributing, feeling good about doing a job well. It also instills confidence and a sense of belonging. When interacting with the animals and looking into their eyes, humans experience a sense of remembering who they are and receive unconditional affection and contact with a sentient being who does not judge them. The animals have difficulty trusting and show anxiety through body language. Humans who suffer from various habitual patterns recognize this and can relate in a manner that requires stillness and patience. In return, this assists the animals and humans in establishing a relationship that is authentic.

Many humans who suffer from wounds/illnesses are misunderstood, do not trust, and are highly anxious and sensitive individuals. The animals also have these attributes, due to the fact, humans have been their predators. And if these animals can trust again and come up to people, this can have a powerful healing impact. Other activities available involve corporate/organizational retreats, focusing on team building. Each organization would have its own specific program developed for their intentions and goals. Contact us if you have any questions about developing a program specifically to meet your needs.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Wow… this is a difficult question because one can never cover everyone who deserves credit. If I were to dedicate any credit, it would first start with those I have had the privilege to work within their suffering… clients who have become friends and supporters of this dream.

Frank Wendland, Founder of W.O.L.F. Sanctuary in Colorado. He has taught me so much about these animals and lives by a code that preserves their freedom and honor on this planet. My Red Road Family. I choose to walk a path of Lakota traditions and values and participate in ceremonies dedicated to healing Mother Earth and all those who inhabit her. All the individuals who have assisted me in my own healing through the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous; therapists; teachers, and particularly those whom I did not really like when I met them… they helped me grow the most.

Pricing:

• Currently we charge $50.00 per visitor for tour, education, and socializing with the animals

Contact Info:

• Address: 1536 South Ridge Road
  Bailey, Colorado 80421
• Website: www.songofthewolf.org
• Phone: Dave Parker 817 734 4776
• Email: songofthewolfhealing@gmail.com
• Instagram: SOTWHC
• Facebook: Song of the Wolf Healing Center

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