$10,000 Reward Offered After Beloved Coyote Wendy Is Euthanized Following Injuries Linked To Shooting
Photo Credit: Wildlife Care of Southern California
A determined effort to save a young coyote known to residents in the Studio City, California, community as Wendy has ended in tragedy after a veterinary examination revealed the devastating extent of the injuries she had sustained.
Wendy, who was approximately three years old, had been surviving for more than a year with a severe infection affecting the left side of her face. Wildlife Care of Southern California had been tracking her since July 14, 2026, relying on sightings and information from local residents as rescuers worked to safely reach her.
After weeks of tracking and rescue efforts, Wildlife Care of Southern California successfully captured Wendy at the end of August and brought her into its care, with assistance from Southern California Pit Bull Rescue, Urban Rescue, and members of the Studio City community.
Wildlife Care began treating Wendy with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication before she underwent a thorough veterinary examination.
“Diagnostic imaging revealed two pellets lodged in her head, indicating that she had been previously shot,” Wildlife Care of Southern California stated.
The organization also reported that Wendy had been hit by a car and was suffering from a chronic infection that had caused catastrophic damage to the left side of her face.
Wendy had no teeth remaining on the affected side, her palate was severely damaged, and the injuries extended into her sinuses. She was blind in one eye, could not hear from one ear, struggled to breathe, could not eat solid food, and was missing most of the bone from the left side of her face.
Despite everything she had endured, Wendy continued adapting, searching for food, and fighting to stay alive. Sadly, her injuries were so severe that there was no surgery or treatment capable of restoring normal function. After carefully considering her long-term welfare and quality of life, the heartbreaking decision was made to humanely end her suffering.
During her final week of care, Wendy was safe, comfortable, receiving medication, and surrounded by the people who worked tirelessly to help save her life.
Wildlife Care of Southern California shared:
“Letting her go was not giving up on her; it was the final act of compassion we could give her.”
Over the years, Peace 4 Animals has brought several injured and orphaned wild animals in need of rehabilitation to Wildlife Care of Southern California for specialized care. We are incredibly grateful for Executive Director Anna Marie Reams and her dedicated team, who do amazing and compassionate work rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for wildlife in need.
Now, efforts are turning toward seeking justice for Wendy.
Southern California Pit Bull Rescue has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for shooting Wendy. The reward is being personally offered by the rescue’s founder and Executive Director, Mark Rulon.
Our hearts are with Wendy and everyone who fought so hard to help save her. We pray that the person responsible for shooting her is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and that Wendy’s story leads to greater compassion, respect, and protection for coyotes and all wildlife.
Rest in peace, Wendy. You deserved so much better.
