A man’s harrowing encounter with a rabid coyote in the woods of Johnston, Rhode Island, has left people in awe and serves as a reminder of the dangers that can lurk in the great outdoors. The unidentified man, who was hiking last Friday, found himself face to face with the aggressive animal and had to rely on his own strength and quick thinking to survive.
According to a report by PEOPLE, the man was bitten on the leg by the rabid coyote. However, instead of succumbing to panic or fear, he mustered up the courage to fight back. In a display of incredible bravery, he managed to overpower the animal and ultimately kill it with his bare hands.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) later confirmed that the coyote had tested positive for rabies. This revelation adds an even greater sense of urgency to the situation, as rabies is a deadly disease that can be transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals.
The man’s ability to subdue the coyote by pinning it down and cutting off its air supply is nothing short of remarkable. It is a testament to his strength and determination in the face of danger. His actions likely saved not only his own life but potentially the lives of others who could have encountered the rabid animal.
Authorities suspect that this particular coyote may have been involved in another attack in Scituate, Rhode Island, just a day prior. NBC News and AP report that someone walking their dog was targeted in that incident. This suggests that the coyote was on a rampage, posing a significant threat to both humans and animals in the area.
In response to these attacks, Rhode Island state veterinarian Scott Marshall is urging anyone who may have come into contact with the coyote in either location to reach out to the Department of Health’s infectious disease division. The importance of seeking medical attention cannot be overstated, as without post-exposure vaccines, rabies is almost always fatal.
Furthermore, officials are advising pet owners to ensure that their animals’ rabies vaccines are up to date. This serves as a crucial preventative measure, as pets can also fall victim to the disease if they come into contact with infected animals.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can be encountered while enjoying nature. While hiking and exploring the great outdoors can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, it is essential to remain vigilant and prepared for unexpected encounters with wildlife.
In conclusion, the man’s incredible feat of killing a rabid coyote with his bare hands highlights the importance of being aware of the potential dangers that can arise in nature. His bravery and quick thinking saved not only his own life but potentially the lives of others who could have encountered the aggressive animal. This incident serves as a reminder to always prioritize safety and take necessary precautions when venturing into the wilderness.
