At a Glance
- Maude survived a coyote trap injury and gave birth to a puppy on Jan. 26.
- The rescue agency treated her for severe neck injuries and a swollen face.
- The local community raised over $10,000 for her medical care and future needs.
In a dramatic rescue in Virginia, a pregnant dog named Maude survived a coyote trap and later delivered a healthy puppy. The New Kent Sheriff’s Office Animal Protection Unit treated her for severe neck injuries and a swollen face, while the local community rallied to fund her care. This story highlights both the dangers of wildlife snares and the compassion of a community that came together to support a rescued animal.
A Near-Fatal Trap and a Brave Rescue
On Jan. 19, deputies discovered Maude on a remote road near the New Kent Highway, her neck wrapped tightly in a wire that had swollen her head and caused extensive damage. The unit posted on Facebook that she was pregnant and fighting for her life and her unborn puppies.
The rescue team immediately stabilized her and transported her to a local veterinary clinic for emergency care. They noted the wire had caused a “disgusting amount of damage” to her neck and surrounding tissues.
The Investigation into the Coyote Trap
Investigators later determined the device was a cable snare, a tool commonly used to capture wildlife that tightens like a zip tie when the animal struggles. Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources requires such snares to be checked every 24 hours and to include a break to prevent continuous tightening.
The Animal Protection Unit explained that the loop around Maude’s neck had no break, which allowed it to continue tightening and placed her throat under a life-threatening strain. They called on the public for information about where the trap was set, who set it, and how Maude managed to escape the loop.
Medical Care and Recovery
By Jan. 20, a veterinarian confirmed that Maude carried one very large puppy and was receiving fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication to aid her recovery. Two days later, the unit reported that Maude had been picked up from the vet and was doing exceptionally better, with her facial swelling gone and her neck healing well.
Despite her improved condition, she was still awaiting the arrival of her newborn, and the team continued to monitor her closely. On Jan. 26, Maude was discharged from the veterinarian and felt comfortable enough to hold her puppy, marking a significant milestone in her recovery.
The unit placed her in a whelping box room, describing her as “fantastic” and noting that she was happy to see people who love her.
Family Life and Community Support
The unit consulted a local veterinarian to determine if Maude would have more puppies and discovered she was a mother to a single, spoiled child. Officials praised her ability to care for her pup, stating that both mother and puppy were doing great.
The local community quickly raised more than $10,000 to cover her medical expenses and future complications. The Animal Protection Unit announced that all donated funds not used for Maude’s care would be saved for future medical needs of animals in New Kent.
Looking Forward
The agency emphasized that Maude’s medical expenses are fully covered, and any future complications will also be funded through the community’s support. A Facebook comment celebrated the outcome, calling it a ‘miracle happy ending!’ and reflecting the relief felt by the rescuers and donors.
Key Takeaways
Wildlife snares without breaks can cause fatal injuries, as Maude’s case demonstrates the severe risks associated with improperly designed traps. Community fundraising can play a vital role in covering emergency veterinary care for rescued animals, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder recovery. Early veterinary intervention and ongoing monitoring are essential for pregnant animals trapped in hazardous devices, providing a pathway to successful outcomes.
