A coyote known to residents of Studio City, Los Angeles, as Wendy was euthanized after a veterinary examination found two pellets lodged in her head and an infection that had severely damaged her jaw. Wendy, believed to be approximately 3 years old, had become a familiar presence in the area, where residents had observed her living with a large growth or abscess on her face for more than a year. Her condition had raised concerns among locals, who often saw her wandering near homes and parks. Wildlife Care of Southern California, a nonprofit organization that provides care to injured wildlife, captured Wendy last week after months of tracking sightings reported by residents. However, a veterinary examination revealed that her injuries were far worse than they appeared.
Diagnostic imaging showed two pellets lodged in Wendy's head, indicating she had apparently been shot, according to the wildlife organization. The resulting infection had destroyed bone in the upper jaw on the left side of her face. "The extent of the damage was so severe that there was no surgery or treatment capable of restoring normal function," the organization said. Wendy was given antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and soft food while in care. Veterinarians ultimately determined that she could never be returned to the wild and would need to survive on soft food for the rest of her life.
After considering her prognosis and quality of life, the group made the decision to euthanize her. "After consulting together and carefully considering her long-term welfare and quality of life, we collectively determined that keeping her alive under those circumstances would not be humane," the organization said. Wildlife Care of Southern California said Wendy was kept safe and comfortable during her final week. "Although the outcome was not the one any of us had hoped or prayed for, we are deeply grateful to everyone who followed her story, helped with her capture, donated towards her care, and held hope for recovery," the group said.
The organization plans to release photographs from Wendy's examination to document the severity of her condition. These images aim to raise awareness about the dangers wildlife can face, including injuries from human activities. The group emphasized the importance of community support in caring for injured animals and the difficult decisions sometimes required to ensure their well-being.
Coyote Known as Wendy Euthanized After Discovery of Severe Injuries
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