Colorado coyote puppy had to be euthanized after people allegedly played with it before biting someone

YUMA, Colorado (KKTV) – A woman was bitten and a wild animal had to be shot after several Colorado families allegedly played with a coyote puppy.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials shared details of the incident with the public on Thursday. According to the National Wildlife Agency, people recently tried to pet and play with the puppy just north of the Yuma District Hospital.

“Upon investigation, it was evident that this young coyote had been fed by members of the community, which had gotten him used to getting used to,” read a press release from CPW. “When the wildlife officers went to seize the coyote, which had been taken by another individual to his store, the coyote was wearing a dog collar and had a leash on it.”

The young coyote had to be euthanized so that a brain sample could be tested for rabies.

“This case should remind us to leave baby animals alone and not to feed wild animals,” said Josh Melby, wildlife officer. “The lady who was bitten is now having rabies vaccines, which is unpleasant and expensive.”

Feeding big game in Colorado can result in fines starting at $ 100 plus supplements.

Click here to learn more about life with wildlife in Colorado.

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