A woman was recently out walking her dog in Louisiana when she stumbled upon an animal who needed her help. Lying down next to the path, there was a sick-looking coyote covered in mosquitoes.
Raiford worked with a vet to get the coyote parasite treatments, vital nutrients and medical exams. Even after extensive bloodwork, X-rays and other tests, they couldn’t tell exactly what was bothering her.
Even though the coyote’s condition was still a mystery, Raiford couldn’t bear seeing her so weak. She named her Zelda and resolved to do everything she could to help her recover.
“She had a will to live and she didn’t give up,” Raiford said. “That was what I kept [saying], ‘As long as she doesn’t give up, I will keep fighting with her and for her.’”
@geauxwildrehab Zelda is ALIVE!! She is NOT DEAD!! I’m getting messages saying that an account is posting she died. What awful person would say this and start this rumor?!?!?! I hate knowing this…I haven’t seen the post but I would love to know where it started. I am late with her update today…sorry y’all! Its been a busy day…she is doing amazing and continuing to show how determined she is. #geauxwildrehab #wildliferescue #wildliferehabilitation #wildlife #coyote #everylifematters #savinglives #zelda #update #fypシ #fyp #wildanimals #prayers #progress #nevergiveup #tuesday ♬ Beautiful Life – Vin Music
For weeks, Zelda barely moved. Raiford tried to stay hopeful, but wasn’t sure whether Zelda would ever recover.
Then, about three weeks after Zelda arrived at the rehabilitation center, Raiford started noticing her pushing herself up with her legs. She was trying to stand.
A few days later, a miracle happened: Zelda stood up and started walking.
“You could just tell she knew where she was,” Raiford said. “She was back home. And then when she flew out of that kennel, she jumped into the water and swam and took off running … It was perfect.”