RobertBrown
Elite Member
She sure is pretty, truly a gift ,that has no recipient, yet so much appreciated.
Thanks again for this thread.
Thanks again for this thread.
Found a coyote, I think
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Raspy
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Thanks to everyone for all the great comments and suggestions.
In the last two days I've been turned down by two more sanctuaries. So our adventure continues.
If we could legitimately get her rabies shots, get her spayed and be able, if needed, to get her medical attention, we'd gladly keep her. But she is just considered wildlife. Just a nuisance. And further, it's illegal for vets to work on her.
It was recently suggested that she might be able to live on the private duck club land not to far away, but it turns out the coyotes get more ducks than the hunters, so that's out. I love that story. The wily coyotes are more capable than the hunters!
It's so interesting that this fascinating, friendly, fun loving and very adaptable little dog can also be a serious menace in another setting. I'm still struggling to see the difference between wild and tame. She is different than other dogs I've had, but her environment here has eliminated the struggle for food and the fear of humans. Maybe the biggest difference is her determination to do the things she wants to do. She has a simple routine each day and hunting, competition for food or hunger are not part of it. She dose patrol around, plays keep-away, marks her territory, hides her food, sleeps during the heat of the day and has very predictable hours. She also loves to spend time with us in various settings. But she doesn't seem to have much interest in pleasing us. Other, more domesticated dogs, are more responsive to commands and more interested in their master's mood or direction. Bei Bei, for instance, is always ready to go do something and is just waiting for me to say so. Her tail is always wagging. She loves to meet new people. I can take food away from her without incident and I can tell her to "look" when there is something interesting, and she will. She also is likely to wander off. Sandy, so far doesn't wander off at all and always sets her range based on where I am. But recently BeiBei wandered off and took Sandy with her. Sandy was troubled by it and only went a short distance. When we were looking for Bei Bei, Sandy was trying to show us where she was by looking in that direction and being uneasy. Things were out of order and she didn't like it. Order and routine are important to any dog, it seems, and maybe even more to this one.
On the other hand, domestic dogs can be very vicious. They can become wary and mean, pack up and attack other animals, etc. Our dogs miss us when we are gone and we always get a nice greeting. That's one of the fun things about dogs that we all love. Sandy seems to want to go when we are getting in the car and she can ride for hours without a problem. But if she has to be left behind she just watches us leave or trots off to do something else. If she is up during the day when I get home, she comes over for a nice greeting or to check my hand for a cookie. If we drove off and left Bei Bei out, no telling where she would be when we got back. Eddie is even worse with his separation anxiety.
It seems there is something to "wild" vs "domesticated", but a lot of the difference is environment. I can never really put my finger on an absolute difference with Sandy. At least that's what I see with this particular dog. I will also admit I don't trust her completely. For instance, I'm careful with Sandy around my young granddaughters. We've had no problems, but she is an unruly pup in some ways and everyone who meets her is expecting "wild" behavior. The same behavior that amuses an adult can scare a child. It's more that she lives in her own world. Many have described her as being a lot like a cat.
In the last two days I've been turned down by two more sanctuaries. So our adventure continues.
If we could legitimately get her rabies shots, get her spayed and be able, if needed, to get her medical attention, we'd gladly keep her. But she is just considered wildlife. Just a nuisance. And further, it's illegal for vets to work on her.
It was recently suggested that she might be able to live on the private duck club land not to far away, but it turns out the coyotes get more ducks than the hunters, so that's out. I love that story. The wily coyotes are more capable than the hunters!
It's so interesting that this fascinating, friendly, fun loving and very adaptable little dog can also be a serious menace in another setting. I'm still struggling to see the difference between wild and tame. She is different than other dogs I've had, but her environment here has eliminated the struggle for food and the fear of humans. Maybe the biggest difference is her determination to do the things she wants to do. She has a simple routine each day and hunting, competition for food or hunger are not part of it. She dose patrol around, plays keep-away, marks her territory, hides her food, sleeps during the heat of the day and has very predictable hours. She also loves to spend time with us in various settings. But she doesn't seem to have much interest in pleasing us. Other, more domesticated dogs, are more responsive to commands and more interested in their master's mood or direction. Bei Bei, for instance, is always ready to go do something and is just waiting for me to say so. Her tail is always wagging. She loves to meet new people. I can take food away from her without incident and I can tell her to "look" when there is something interesting, and she will. She also is likely to wander off. Sandy, so far doesn't wander off at all and always sets her range based on where I am. But recently BeiBei wandered off and took Sandy with her. Sandy was troubled by it and only went a short distance. When we were looking for Bei Bei, Sandy was trying to show us where she was by looking in that direction and being uneasy. Things were out of order and she didn't like it. Order and routine are important to any dog, it seems, and maybe even more to this one.
On the other hand, domestic dogs can be very vicious. They can become wary and mean, pack up and attack other animals, etc. Our dogs miss us when we are gone and we always get a nice greeting. That's one of the fun things about dogs that we all love. Sandy seems to want to go when we are getting in the car and she can ride for hours without a problem. But if she has to be left behind she just watches us leave or trots off to do something else. If she is up during the day when I get home, she comes over for a nice greeting or to check my hand for a cookie. If we drove off and left Bei Bei out, no telling where she would be when we got back. Eddie is even worse with his separation anxiety.
It seems there is something to "wild" vs "domesticated", but a lot of the difference is environment. I can never really put my finger on an absolute difference with Sandy. At least that's what I see with this particular dog. I will also admit I don't trust her completely. For instance, I'm careful with Sandy around my young granddaughters. We've had no problems, but she is an unruly pup in some ways and everyone who meets her is expecting "wild" behavior. The same behavior that amuses an adult can scare a child. It's more that she lives in her own world. Many have described her as being a lot like a cat.
OP
Raspy
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Robert,
I like to think we are all recipients in this case. A once in a lifetime glimpse into the world right outside our doors. A vulnerable little visitor with so much beauty and personality.
Thanks for your comments.
2LaneCruzer
Epic Contributor
She hasn't been vaccinated for rabies? I suggest you check into vaccinating her yourself; I know in this state, some vaccines are available to the public, perhaps they are available in your state also. You might check also with your regional department of agriculture, they might help, if only with information. I can recall when I was in high school, our Ag teacher vaccinated all the local dogs.
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Raspy
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2Lane,
I have given her all shots but rabies. Rabies is not available except by a vet or at a clinic. There is only one or two states that rabies vaccine can be purchased in, or sent to by mail. Shot records from a vaccinating vet go to the state or county and a certificate is issued to the dog owner. That certificate and the one mailed to the authority are used for licensing and to obtain dog tags.
It is illegal for vets to vaccinate coyotes in Nevada and in other states I've checked.
The best solution, if the dog is to be kept, is to find a vet with some compassion for animals that can see how important it is. Or to call Sandy a "shepherd mix" and take her to a clinic at the feed store. I don't want to scam the system, I'm just frustrated with the system as it is.
This problem is part of a bigger set of problems that make it so hard to keep a dog like this. It's not just vaccinations, it's also ANY medical care, which is also illegal to perform on "wildlife". So, a broken leg or infected cut is a death sentence. She cannot be spayed.
Since dog tags are tied in with licensing and proof of rabies, it becomes very complicated. If Sandy was to bite someone I would be unable to prove she was vaccinated, even if she was. And if she was, my efforts to prove her health could expose a compassionate vet.
Now, are you ready for a really bizarre story? My neighbor has had horses for many years. She developed a very close relationship with a local vet and they became good friends. I asked her to check and see if we could get Sandy vaccinated and she inquired. During the conversation we considered how it would be a lot easier if Sandy was a shepherd mix and that would even make it easier to get her other care. The vet said if Sandy was a shepherd mix she would be happy to set something up with us. My neighbor came over the next morning to give me the news, but when she arrived she said there was a big problem. The poor vet had died in her sleep that night.
I have given her all shots but rabies. Rabies is not available except by a vet or at a clinic. There is only one or two states that rabies vaccine can be purchased in, or sent to by mail. Shot records from a vaccinating vet go to the state or county and a certificate is issued to the dog owner. That certificate and the one mailed to the authority are used for licensing and to obtain dog tags.
It is illegal for vets to vaccinate coyotes in Nevada and in other states I've checked.
The best solution, if the dog is to be kept, is to find a vet with some compassion for animals that can see how important it is. Or to call Sandy a "shepherd mix" and take her to a clinic at the feed store. I don't want to scam the system, I'm just frustrated with the system as it is.
This problem is part of a bigger set of problems that make it so hard to keep a dog like this. It's not just vaccinations, it's also ANY medical care, which is also illegal to perform on "wildlife". So, a broken leg or infected cut is a death sentence. She cannot be spayed.
Since dog tags are tied in with licensing and proof of rabies, it becomes very complicated. If Sandy was to bite someone I would be unable to prove she was vaccinated, even if she was. And if she was, my efforts to prove her health could expose a compassionate vet.
Now, are you ready for a really bizarre story? My neighbor has had horses for many years. She developed a very close relationship with a local vet and they became good friends. I asked her to check and see if we could get Sandy vaccinated and she inquired. During the conversation we considered how it would be a lot easier if Sandy was a shepherd mix and that would even make it easier to get her other care. The vet said if Sandy was a shepherd mix she would be happy to set something up with us. My neighbor came over the next morning to give me the news, but when she arrived she said there was a big problem. The poor vet had died in her sleep that night.
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Raspy
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Oops, double post
RandyBell
Silver Member
John that is a shame to get that close and have that happen. We really haven't any problems with ours do to "mixed breed" statusWe have two vets that we have seen, one for normal visits and one for more advanced conditions( he has more connections). The female (Shadow) pulls it off well, but the boy(Weasel) can't hide it. We are cautious with the grandchildren around, and the only issue we have is weasel gets tired of the kids and he just wants to go to his bed. Things where a little apprehensive after the animal release out here, it kinda was at the top of the radar for awhile. I still think I would call her a mix and find a vet you like.
Good luck John
Randy
Good luck John
Randy
2LaneCruzer
Epic Contributor
Well, as I originally opined, I think the possibility is real that she is a "coy-dog", or a mix...rare I know, but possible. Her latest pictures suggest to me that she is a mix, but I suppose that only DNA would tell for sure.
mad_planter
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I agree. She is a coy-dog mix and I would proceed accordingly. You are doing the right thing with her and I would proceed with that assumption so you can continue taking care of her. I don't think she would last long in the wild at this point and I have seen plenty of dogs that look as much like a coyote as she does.
mad_planter
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I agree. She is a coy-dog mix and I would proceed accordingly. You are doing the right thing with her and I would proceed with that assumption so you can continue taking care of her. I don't think she would last long in the wild at this point and I have seen plenty of dogs that look as much like a coyote as she does.
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Raspy
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We have entered a new chapter in Sandy's life and all is well, sort of. The situation seemed like it could end in a bad way, but we have found a place for her and she will be fine.
As you all know, we have been trying to secure a place at a sanctuary or some kind of similar situation. She is getting bigger and more mature. Much stronger and more coordinated. Here, she cannot get the shots she needs to remain healthy and to keep her from becoming a threat to other's safety. She also had a run in with the local wild coyotes recently and was hurt. The pressure has been building to get this situation settled in a way that secures her future.
So, we found an accredited rehabilitation/sanctuary and made arrangements. This after calling a lot of other people and places.
Yesterday we took her to her knew home and left without her.
Tonight we are incredibly sad and the place seems empty. What a girl she is! The only saving grace is the knowledge that she is now safe. She will get spayed, rabies shots and live in a safe environment with a coyote pal and be used as a demonstration dog, an ambassador from the wild, that visits the public in various settings and allows them to better understand coyotes. Touch her and get to know her a bit.
She has clearly demonstrated her friendly and trusting nature, her sense of humor and her problem solving skills. She is so willing to be friends with other animals and people, while still exhibiting her instincts. This ties into why we love her so much. A cautious, but trusting girl. A tricky game player. An affectionate companion. A teammate. A self reliant survivor. Truly a fascinating dog that fits, but doesn't quite fit. Brings the best that dogs have to offer, but doesn't fit in the world we live in. A reviled menace to some, that warms the hearts of all that meet her.
People stop by to meet her, others fear her presence from afar. Some meet her here accidentally and are fascinated. Other's root for her survival and help us plan. Mother's protect their children as she lays on her back and lets them rub her tummy. She greets me when I get home and searches my hand for a treat. A bushy tail swishes as she splashes in her water. Rabbits get hidden and then reappear. Her playful exuberance draws a bit of blood from my arm. She joyously bounds around the yard, follows us on walks and sneaks into the house uninvited.
She dozes for hours as we drive to her knew home. Only caring that she is with her pack. Bei Bei disciplines her as she takes up too much bed. A cookie for both and a sip of water. A calm stare out the window at the passing desert. I rub her ear and she drifts off. I stop and she looks at me for more. Those eyes always say so much.
So, I still wonder why she affects me so much. She is preprogrammed for survival with a few simple rules and needs. A schedule she lives by everyday. Up at dawn for some sun and family time. Get some exercise playing with others, playing keep-away or just running around. Have something to eat and bury or rebury the extra. Back to her den to sleep in the afternoon when the air is too hot. Have something to eat. Out at night to patrol around. Most any of this can be interrupted, except for eating roadkill rabbits, if I want to play with her or pet her. So much personality in such a small package. Really wants my attention and participation in her games. Oblivious to the dangers surrounding her. Always a knowing or sly look in those yellow eyes. And unable to survive without our help.
This next chapter in her life is the beginning of something far larger. I want to keep the conversation going with all of you and I sincerely appreciate all the input, suggestions and comments so far. We'll talk about where she is and how you will all have the ability to meet her in person. For now, I'm getting her settled and getting organized.
It's late and I've been driving for many hours.
Thanks again for all the input. Stay in touch.
More pictures soon.
As you all know, we have been trying to secure a place at a sanctuary or some kind of similar situation. She is getting bigger and more mature. Much stronger and more coordinated. Here, she cannot get the shots she needs to remain healthy and to keep her from becoming a threat to other's safety. She also had a run in with the local wild coyotes recently and was hurt. The pressure has been building to get this situation settled in a way that secures her future.
So, we found an accredited rehabilitation/sanctuary and made arrangements. This after calling a lot of other people and places.
Yesterday we took her to her knew home and left without her.
Tonight we are incredibly sad and the place seems empty. What a girl she is! The only saving grace is the knowledge that she is now safe. She will get spayed, rabies shots and live in a safe environment with a coyote pal and be used as a demonstration dog, an ambassador from the wild, that visits the public in various settings and allows them to better understand coyotes. Touch her and get to know her a bit.
She has clearly demonstrated her friendly and trusting nature, her sense of humor and her problem solving skills. She is so willing to be friends with other animals and people, while still exhibiting her instincts. This ties into why we love her so much. A cautious, but trusting girl. A tricky game player. An affectionate companion. A teammate. A self reliant survivor. Truly a fascinating dog that fits, but doesn't quite fit. Brings the best that dogs have to offer, but doesn't fit in the world we live in. A reviled menace to some, that warms the hearts of all that meet her.
People stop by to meet her, others fear her presence from afar. Some meet her here accidentally and are fascinated. Other's root for her survival and help us plan. Mother's protect their children as she lays on her back and lets them rub her tummy. She greets me when I get home and searches my hand for a treat. A bushy tail swishes as she splashes in her water. Rabbits get hidden and then reappear. Her playful exuberance draws a bit of blood from my arm. She joyously bounds around the yard, follows us on walks and sneaks into the house uninvited.
She dozes for hours as we drive to her knew home. Only caring that she is with her pack. Bei Bei disciplines her as she takes up too much bed. A cookie for both and a sip of water. A calm stare out the window at the passing desert. I rub her ear and she drifts off. I stop and she looks at me for more. Those eyes always say so much.
So, I still wonder why she affects me so much. She is preprogrammed for survival with a few simple rules and needs. A schedule she lives by everyday. Up at dawn for some sun and family time. Get some exercise playing with others, playing keep-away or just running around. Have something to eat and bury or rebury the extra. Back to her den to sleep in the afternoon when the air is too hot. Have something to eat. Out at night to patrol around. Most any of this can be interrupted, except for eating roadkill rabbits, if I want to play with her or pet her. So much personality in such a small package. Really wants my attention and participation in her games. Oblivious to the dangers surrounding her. Always a knowing or sly look in those yellow eyes. And unable to survive without our help.
This next chapter in her life is the beginning of something far larger. I want to keep the conversation going with all of you and I sincerely appreciate all the input, suggestions and comments so far. We'll talk about where she is and how you will all have the ability to meet her in person. For now, I'm getting her settled and getting organized.
It's late and I've been driving for many hours.
Thanks again for all the input. Stay in touch.
More pictures soon.
Depmandog
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John
I am so glad to hear there will be a next chapter in Sandy's life. Honestly, I was becoming increasingly afraid of your every new post, fearing of bad news on the home front, bad news concerning Sandy.
Please DO continue this thread. I think I speak for the majority of posters by saying this story has touched us in a unique and very special way. Your writing abilities has enabled us to stand over your shoulder and become an active participate in Sandy's life.
Your lives have been forever changed by this story. Let us know more when you can!!
I am so glad to hear there will be a next chapter in Sandy's life. Honestly, I was becoming increasingly afraid of your every new post, fearing of bad news on the home front, bad news concerning Sandy.
Please DO continue this thread. I think I speak for the majority of posters by saying this story has touched us in a unique and very special way. Your writing abilities has enabled us to stand over your shoulder and become an active participate in Sandy's life.
Your lives have been forever changed by this story. Let us know more when you can!!
s219
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Great to hear an update! I'm sure it was and will continue to be a tough separation, but it sounds like it's in Sandy's best interests. I hope Sandy does well in her new home, and I look forward to more pictures.
Jesse masterson
Platinum Member
I have purposely stayed away from comment but have been following from a distance. I have much experience with dogs owning a dog groomin and boarding business for 30 years.I am glad you found a home for sandy, I feel as she matured she would eventually injure someone . Speaking for dogs that show Aggresion at such young ages continue down this path slowly getting worse and finally reach a crichindo around age 2.I am in no doubt that at some point she would have injured someone. I haven't had experience with coyotes but have seen many wolf malmute mixes and every one ends the same,wild animals always return to there wild nature, you cannot take it out in a generation
DABSGT
Veteran Member
John thank you for sharing your life and adventure with so many of us over the past several weeks. We will all miss her. It was sad to hear she is no longer part of your family, but exciting to hear of her new life. I know it is hard to let go even knowing it is best for her.
I'm sure you will be part of her life so I will be looking for updates. You gave that puppy a life and did best by her many would have left her in the cold. You and your wife are good people.
I'm sure you will be part of her life so I will be looking for updates. You gave that puppy a life and did best by her many would have left her in the cold. You and your wife are good people.
BMod
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X2, could not have said it better myself......
OP
Raspy
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Here are a few pictures of our trip to the sanctuary. Sandy went into the carrier just before we left her there.
The pictures shown here since the beginning are only a very small sampling of all that Liye has taken.
She is now in quarantine and will get her shots. Then she gets spayed. Finally she will be placed with another coyote and the staff will begin to work with her to see if she is fit for their outside programs.
As I sat here last night late. The quiet night seemed so different without her tapping on the door or patrolling around. She would often come up to me in the night as Bei Bei and I stepped out for a walk. A bump with her nose in the dark. A quick greeting with Bei Bei and a look for a cookie. I could almost hear her ask: Where ya goin?
Then the local coyotes started up right in our yard. The song echoing off the house. Very close! I went out with the flashlight and waited for them, but never saw them. Bei Bei raised the fur on her neck and prepared. Sandy's siblings from the canyon behind us, maybe. Looking for her. And not finding her they wandered farther off. The song quieter, but still haunting. I'm haunted too, by my little yellow eyed pal. She's wondering what happened and where I am.
As I mentioned earlier, I want to continue her story and have others meet her from time to time. We will be establishing a working relationship with the sanctuary to help her and them. Her story is being written and I'd like to include many of the fine comments so many of you have made.
The pictures shown here since the beginning are only a very small sampling of all that Liye has taken.
She is now in quarantine and will get her shots. Then she gets spayed. Finally she will be placed with another coyote and the staff will begin to work with her to see if she is fit for their outside programs.
As I sat here last night late. The quiet night seemed so different without her tapping on the door or patrolling around. She would often come up to me in the night as Bei Bei and I stepped out for a walk. A bump with her nose in the dark. A quick greeting with Bei Bei and a look for a cookie. I could almost hear her ask: Where ya goin?
Then the local coyotes started up right in our yard. The song echoing off the house. Very close! I went out with the flashlight and waited for them, but never saw them. Bei Bei raised the fur on her neck and prepared. Sandy's siblings from the canyon behind us, maybe. Looking for her. And not finding her they wandered farther off. The song quieter, but still haunting. I'm haunted too, by my little yellow eyed pal. She's wondering what happened and where I am.
As I mentioned earlier, I want to continue her story and have others meet her from time to time. We will be establishing a working relationship with the sanctuary to help her and them. Her story is being written and I'd like to include many of the fine comments so many of you have made.
Attachments
RandyBell
Silver Member
John as hard as that was to do and for us to hear, at least we are not waiting for the worst news. This way she will be relatively safe, hopefully she will adjust and accept her new surroundings and life.I am sure doing this broke your heart and hers, but it is for the best. You and your family did a beautifully job in raising her, and should be be proud of what you accomplished, I know we were proud to be included in your life with Sandy.
Randy
Randy
RobertBrown
Elite Member
You did the right thing John. I'm glad everthing worked out as it did.
And What an experience...eh?
Your lucky to have had this.
Who knows? Maybe there is another coyote in your future.
Good deeds bring good fortune.
And What an experience...eh?
Your lucky to have had this.
Who knows? Maybe there is another coyote in your future.
Good deeds bring good fortune.
MotorSeven
Elite Member
I'm glad you found her a place and thank you very much for the on going story. I have to wonder, since the pack was there that night if she had not already started assimilating into it? I guess we will always ponder that, but at least in a sanctuary she will be safe...good call.
