When a man spotted something unusual drifting among the debris of a swollen river in San Diego, California, he quickly realized it was an animal in distress.
Without hesitation, he contacted the San Diego Humane Society. The animal was too far out for rescuers to reach on foot, but one detail made the situation urgent: its head was trapped inside a plastic container.
The team knew there wasn’t a moment to lose and immediately called for backup.
A Race Against The Current
Because the only way to reach the animal was by water, lifeguards were asked to step in.
Two lifeguards rushed to the scene and launched a boat, rowing steadily toward the struggling creature. The conditions were rough, with heavy weather making the task even more difficult.
Still, their determination paid off—they managed to reach the animal at last.
On the way back, they carefully lifted it into the boat and returned to shore, where San Diego Humane Society staff were waiting.
At first glance, everyone assumed the soaking, frightened animal was a dog. Wrapped in a blanket for warmth, it was quickly placed in a truck and transported to the San Diego Wildlife Center, California, so the dangerous plastic container could be removed.
Once at the Wildlife Center, staff immediately began working to free the animal’s head.
But when the container finally came off, they were stunned.
This wasn’t a dog at all.
The rescued animal turned out to be a wild coyote.
While surprising, it didn’t change the outcome—the staff was determined to help. The coyote was suffering from mild hypothermia, had numerous cactus spines tangled in his fur, and bore a few wounds that needed treatment.
After receiving care throughout the day, he was transferred to a specialized facility dedicated to rehabilitating apex predators.
The team expressed confidence that this resilient animal would recover fully and be released back into the wild where he belongs.
A Vital Reminder
Although this rescue ended well, experts emphasized an important warning: never approach wild coyotes.
Because coyotes, along with animals such as raccoons, foxes, skunks, and bats, can carry different strains of rabies, approaching them could put you at risk of being bitten and exposed to the virus.
If you ever see a coyote or any wild animal in distress, the safest and most responsible action is to contact your local wildlife or animal rescue organization. These trained professionals have the knowledge and equipment to handle such situations safely for both the animal and the community.
This San Diego rescue serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers animals face from human litter—and of how quick thinking and teamwork can save a life, no matter the species.