Finding an entirely unknown animal in your yard is quite rare, and if the condition of the animal further complicates identification, it can lead to a real mystery. This was precisely what Sharon Betrozzi experienced when she encountered what she thought to be an old, sick dog underneath her porch in Folsom, California. Uncertain about how to proceed, she promptly contacted City Folsom Animal Services for assistance, eager not to handle the situation alone.
She Was Left In Shock
When the animal service team arrived, nearly four hours had elapsed since the creature had been lying still. Upon closer examination, the officers disagreed with Sharon’s initial assessment of the creature being a dog. To her astonishment, they revealed that it was not a dog at all but a very sick coyote. This revelation left her in shock. Realizing the coyote’s dire condition, the team acted swiftly to save it.
According to a Facebook post from the City of Folsom Animal Services, it was determined that the young coyote was suffering from a severe case of mange. Consequently, they transported her to Gold Country Wildlife Rescue in Loomis, California, naming her Princess and wishing her luck along the way.
Determined To Help Her
Upon her arrival at GCWR, it was evident that Princess’s condition was grave; in addition to suffering from mange, she was dehydrated. However, the dedicated staff at the rescue were determined to help her and immediately commenced treatment, administering rehydration fluids and medications for the mange.
“She was bathed to help remove some of the dead skin and to make her feel more comfortable. The next morning we were pleased to see that she drank all of the water and special diet food we had left with her overnight. She started scratching less and eating more.” Sallysue Stein, president of GCWR’s board of directors, told The Dodo.
After several days of rigorous treatment, significant improvement was observed, leading caretakers to believe that Princess would be okay. Once they returned her to a natural diet after a few months, she began to gain weight, her skin condition improved, and the sparkle of a real coyote returned to her eyes.
With her condition improving, this brave coyote was poised for a dramatic comeback.
Back Where She Belongs
Although the staff at GCWR believed Princess was ready to be reintroduced to the wild, they chose to err on the side of caution. Instead of rushing her back into her natural habitat, she was transferred to Sierra Wildlife Rescue, where she could interact with other coyotes and readjust to the wilderness.
Her time at the rescue was brief, as her joyful moment to return to the wild arrived sooner than expected. Together with her coyote companions, she was released back into nature.
This moment captured the essence of freedom, especially considering all that this resilient coyote had endured. While she was finally back where she belonged, she surely held within her heart the memories of those who helped her along her journey.
