Whenever we spot an animal in distress, most of us would like to think our instinct would be to help. Unfortunately, not everyone acts on that impulse.
Regardless of the species, injured or starving animals deserve a second chance—and that often means stepping up when no one else will.
But with wildlife, it’s important to proceed cautiously. You never know how they might react, so calling trained rescuers is always the best course of action.
That’s exactly what happened in a Florida neighborhood, where residents spotted a strange creature wandering around with a jar stuck over its head. They wasted no time in calling for help.
Lea Steps In To Find Out What’s Really Going On
After Lea Elise Haverstock came across a post about a black “dog” seen roaming with a glass jar stuck on its head, she didn’t hesitate—she knew she had to do something.
Although she had a hunch that the animal might not be a dog after all, Lea still joined the search. The animal clearly needed help, as it couldn’t eat or breathe properly.
Lea told The Dodo: “There was a post that an emaciated black ‘dog’ was loose with a glass jar on its head. I came out to join that search.”
Photos shared online showed just how thin and frail the animal had become. It was clear this creature hadn’t had food in quite some time and wouldn’t last much longer.
Lea continues by saying: “I was distressed knowing this animal, whatever it was, had a jar on its head and could not eat.”
Eventually, one of the Pasco County Animal Services officers managed to spot the animal from a distance—and they finally realized what it was.
It wasn’t a dog. It was actually a black coyote. While not commonly seen in that specific area of Florida, a small population still lives nearby.
After Hours Of Searching, They Found Their Chance
The search dragged on for hours. Rescuers looked in every possible spot, but the animal was nowhere to be found.
Finally, they caught sight of it in an open field. Lea quickly called in the rest of the team so they could act fast.
When they approached, the coyote surprisingly didn’t try to flee. The team was able to get close and gently remove the jar from its head. The moment it came off, the animal could finally breathe freely again.
The coyote gave his rescuers one last look—almost like a thank you—then bolted into the nearby woods, likely searching for his first proper meal in days.
It had been a long, difficult rescue, but Lea was beyond grateful she followed her instincts. The moment taught her something powerful: helping any animal, no matter what kind, is always worth it.
She said: “Fight for that animal no matter if that is uncomfortable [or if] it puts you in a position where you have to take a stand. Be a warrior for helpless animals, [be] kind, compassionate and brave.”
Every animal deserves the chance to live freely, and if we’re in a position to help—even just a little—it’s up to us to make that choice.
That’s a message worth remembering, and one we can all carry with us.