While driving down a quiet road in Illinois, a compassionate passerby noticed a small, puppy-like creature sitting alone by the roadside.
Instinctively, they stopped to help, placing the animal in a cardboard box and bringing it to the Bartlett Police Department, hoping the officers could assist.
An Unusual “Puppy”
At the police department, the little animal was handed over to Sergeant Kyle Rybaski, who readily took responsibility for the stray and planned to bring it to a local animal shelter.
However, as the officers examined the animal more closely, they realized something was off.
“It wasn’t your average puppy,” Sergeant Kyle explained. “Her fur felt wiry, her paws were unusually large, and her sharp nails stood out.”
Their curiosity grew, and with each observation, the mystery of this peculiar “puppy” deepened.
A Shocking Discovery
A quick internet search led Sergeant Kyle to an astonishing conclusion: the animal in the box wasn’t a dog at all—it was a baby coyote.
“We compared her to photos online, and it was a perfect match. Everyone was amazed. It’s not every day you get to hold a baby coyote!”
Calling in the Experts
Although the baby coyote seemed healthy, it was too young to survive on its own in the wild.
Recognizing the delicate situation, the officers reached out to the Willowbrook Wildlife Center, a facility specializing in wildlife rehabilitation.
The wildlife experts arrived promptly, reassured the officers, and took the young coyote into their care.
“She’ll be raised alongside other coyotes until she’s old enough to be released back into the wild,” the staff assured Sergeant Kyle and his team.
A Memorable Experience
For Sergeant Kyle and the Bartlett Police Department, it was a day they wouldn’t soon forget.
“It was such a rewarding experience,” he said. “It’s good to know she’s in capable hands and will eventually return to her natural habitat.”
A Word of Caution
While this story has a happy ending, it serves as a reminder: if you encounter a coyote—or any wild animal—it’s best to observe from a safe distance.
Coyotes are classified as Rabies-Vector Species, meaning they can carry rabies, which poses a serious health risk.
If you come across a wild animal in need, contact your local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center.
These trained professionals are equipped to handle such situations safely and humanely.
In the end, the baby coyote’s journey—from mistaken identity to professional care—stands as a heartwarming example of how compassion and quick thinking can make a difference for wildlife in need.