Community Rallies to Rescue Coyote in Distress
September 5, 2026
In a Southern California neighborhood, a coyote with a severely swollen face, known to locals as Wendy, captured the hearts of residents who refused to ignore her plight.
Wendy, spotted by Barbara Perrin’s son in Studio City, had been enduring this condition for nearly a year. Perrin, a regular rescuer of cats and dogs with the organization Saving Grace LA, discovered that Wendy had become a fixture in the community.
Photo: 
Wildlife Care of Southern California
Residents took steps to ease Wendy’s tough existence. A newspaper delivery boy frequently updated Perrin with photos and left food and water for Wendy. “People really cared about her, which was amazing to see,” said Perrin.
Perrin’s efforts to share Wendy’s story on social media led to support from Wildlife Care of Southern California, and Southern California Pitbull Rescue, who installed cameras to monitor Wendy’s whereabouts, all contributing to her eventual rescue.
Following her rescue, Wendy now receives treatment at Wildlife Care of Southern California. Her therapy includes antibiotics and medication, with a safe space to recover.
The reason behind Wendy’s facial swelling remains unknown, with some hypothesizing a car accident, while Perrin suspects a severe infection. Despite the uncertainty, the surrounding community’s dedication is evident. Thousands of dollars in donations have been collected to aid Wendy’s recovery.
As Perrin reflected, “I think Wendy is a testament to so many people caring and wanting to help and reaching out.”
This saga highlights an extraordinary community effort for a wild animal in distress, illustrating the power of collective compassion. Residents not only provided physical aid but also spread awareness and raised financial support for Wendy’s healing journey.
