When a man noticed an unusual object drifting in the debris of a flooded San Diego river, he realized it was an animal in distress.
He quickly contacted the San Diego Humane Society, only to learn that the animal was beyond reach by land.
Upon discovering that its head was trapped in a plastic container, they recognized the urgency and called for additional assistance.
Rescue Operation
Since the only route to the animal was via boat, the rescue team enlisted the help of lifeguards.
Two lifeguards immediately answered the distress call and swiftly navigated the river towards the animal.
Despite adverse weather conditions complicating the rescue, the resolute lifeguards successfully reached the animal.
As they returned to safety, the lifeguards managed to get the animal, initially thought to be a dog, to dry land where animal rescuers awaited.
The dog was wrapped in a blanket and transported in a truck for immediate care at the nearest San Diego Wildlife Center, where the container would be removed.
Finally Rescued
Upon arrival at the Wildlife Center, the team immediately set to work removing the container from the animal’s head. However, when they finally saw its face, they were taken aback.
This was not a dog!
The animal turned out to be a wild coyote.
Regardless of the species, the staff was eager to help, as the coyote was experiencing mild hypothermia and was covered in cactus spines along with several wounds requiring treatment.
After spending a day at the Wildlife Center, the coyote was referred to a facility that specializes in rehabilitating apex predators.
The staff is confident that this remarkable coyote will recuperate swiftly and be reintroduced to the wild where it belongs.
Important Reminder
It’s crucial that if you encounter wild coyotes, you do not attempt to approach them!
As coyotes, along with raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, can carry various rabies virus strains, getting too close can increase your risk of bite and potential rabies transmission.
If you see a coyote in need, reach out to your local animal or wildlife center, as they have the expertise and procedures in place to handle such situations safely and effectively.
