When a man noticed something strange floating in the debris of a swollen river in San Diego, California, he quickly realized it was an animal in distress.
Without wasting any time, 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 critical: its head was stuck inside a plastic container.
The team knew they had to act fast and immediately called for backup.
A Race Against The Current
The only way to reach the trapped animal was by water, so lifeguards were called in to assist.
Two lifeguards quickly arrived at the scene and launched a boat, carefully rowing toward the struggling animal. The weather conditions were harsh, making the rescue even more difficult, but their determination paid off as they managed to reach the creature.
Once they had the animal on board, they gently lifted it into the boat and made their way back to shore, where staff from the San Diego Humane Society were waiting.
At first, the soaked and frightened animal appeared to be a dog. Wrapped in a blanket to warm up, it was placed in a truck and transported to the San Diego Wildlife Center, where the dangerous plastic container could be removed.
Once at the center, staff immediately began working to free the animal’s head.
When the plastic container was finally removed, they were stunned by what they found.
The Surprising Reveal
The animal wasn’t a dog at all. It was a wild coyote.
Although this was a surprising discovery, it didn’t change the course of action.
The staff at the Wildlife Center was determined to help. The coyote was suffering from mild hypothermia, had numerous cactus spines tangled in his fur, and had several wounds that needed treatment.
After receiving care throughout the day, the coyote was transferred to a specialized facility that rehabilitates apex predators.
The team was confident that the resilient animal would make a full recovery and would be released back into the wild, where he belonged.
A Vital Reminder
While this rescue had a positive outcome, experts are quick to remind the public not to approach wild coyotes.
Coyotes, along with animals like raccoons, foxes, skunks, and bats, can carry various strains of rabies. Approaching them could put you at risk of being bitten or exposed to the virus.
If you come across a coyote or any other wild animal in distress, the safest course of action is to contact a local wildlife or animal rescue organization. These trained professionals have the experience and equipment needed to handle these situations safely for both the animal and the public.
This rescue in San Diego serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers posed by human litter and how quick thinking and teamwork can save a life—no matter the species.