Beloved LA coyote Wendy euthanized after vets discover she had been shot in the head

A coyote known and loved by residents of a Los Angeles neighborhood has been euthanized after veterinarians discovered two pellets lodged in her head and an infection that had severely damaged her jaw.Wendy, believed to be about 3 years old, had become a familiar sight in Studio City, where residents had watched with concern as she lived with a large growth or abscess on her face for more than a year.Wildlife Care of Southern California captured Wendy last week after months of tracking sightings reported by residents.But a veterinary examination revealed her injuries were far worse than they appeared.A coyote who has had a huge abscess or undiagnosed growth on her face for over a year and charmed Studio City residents is getting veterinary care today (Wildlife Care of Southern California)Diagnostic imaging showed two pellets lodged in Wendy’s head, indicating she had apparently been shot, according to the wildlife organization. The resulting infection had destroyed bone in the upper jaw on the left side of her face.“The extent of the damage was so severe that there was no surgery or treatment capable of restoring normal function,” the organization said.Wendy was given antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication and soft food while in care. Veterinarians ultimately determined that she could never be returned to the wild and would need to survive on soft food for the rest of her life.After considering her prognosis and quality of life, the group made the decision to euthanize her.“After consulting together and carefully considering her long-term welfare and quality of life, we collectively determined that keeping her alive under those circumstances would not be humane,” the organization said.Wildlife Care of Southern California said Wendy was kept safe and comfortable during her final week.“Although the outcome was not the one any of us had hoped or prayed for, we are deeply grateful to everyone who followed her story, helped with her capture, donated towards her care, and held hope for recovery,” the group said.The organization plans to release photographs from Wendy’s examination to document the severity of her condition.