A black-tailed deer spotted with a child\u2019s swim vest stuck around her neck near Shelton was safely helped by a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife specialist, the agency said.<\/p>\n
According to WDFW, wildlife conflict specialist Ryan McNiff responded to reports of the doe seen roaming with the flotation device tangled around her neck in Mason County. <\/p>\n
The plastic vest, likely discarded outdoors, had become lodged in a way that prevented the animal from removing it on her own.<\/p>\n
McNiff was able to immobilize the deer, safely remove the swim vest, and release her back into the wild. <\/p>\n
She was reunited with her fawn shortly afterward, WDFW said.<\/p>\n
Photos shared by the agency show the worn, bright blue and yellow vest\u2014clearly not intended for wildlife\u2014wrapped awkwardly around the animal\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n
Officials used the incident as a reminder to the public not to attempt to help wildlife on their own. <\/p>\n
Under Washington law, it is illegal for anyone without a permit to hold or care for wild animals, even if they appear injured or in distress.<\/p>\n
\u201cAttempting to care for wildlife without the appropriate skills and experience can make the situation worse,\u201d the agency said in a statement.<\/p>\n
Anyone who encounters wildlife that may need help is urged to contact a permitted wildlife rehabilitator.<\/p>\n
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