On what seemed like an ordinary Sunday night, Massachusetts State Trooper Carlo Mastromattei was out on patrol when he encountered an unusual situation. He was alerted to an injured animal lying on the road. Approaching the scene, Mastromattei expected to find a dog but was surprised to discover a frightened coyote pup trembling near the busy Revere Beach Parkway, close to Suffolk Downs. The tiny creature looked lost and vulnerable amidst the bustling traffic, with no sign of his mother. It was clear the pup was in immediate danger, and Mastromattei knew he had to act swiftly.
Concerned for the pup’s safety, Mastromattei contacted local wildlife and animal control authorities for assistance. Unfortunately, no help was available at the time. Determined not to leave the young coyote in harm’s way, he reached out to Lisa Cutting, the owner of Ocean View Kennels, for help. Cutting, known for her quick action and compassion, immediately agreed to assist. Together, they carefully secured the frightened pup in a crate and ensured his safety.
Touched by the trooper’s dedication, Cutting decided to name the pup “Carlo” in Mastromattei’s honor. She later shared with CBS Boston, “The baby coyote was leaning against the sidewalk in fear. He was frozen with fear.” Cutting continued, “If they can be helped, saved, rescued, rehabbed, they deserve that chance. Put my gloves on. Grabbed a towel and a quarantine cage, and picked him up and brought him to safety. They all deserve a chance, and Carlo got it.”
Mastromattei and his girlfriend, both passionate animal lovers, took the pup home for the night, ensuring he received the care and warmth he needed until the next step in his journey. The following day, Ocean View Kennels transported the pup to Tufts Wildlife in North Grafton, where veterinarians confirmed his good health. From there, Carlo was sent to a wildlife rehabilitation center in the Berkshires, where he would learn to adapt to his natural environment in preparation for release back into the wild.
The Massachusetts State Police publicly praised Trooper Mastromattei, Cutting, and Tufts Wildlife for their kindness and dedication. “The Department offers its sincere thanks to Trooper Mastromattei, his girlfriend, Ocean View Kennels, and Tufts for their compassionate care for this beautiful little creature,” they wrote on Facebook. The story quickly gained attention, with thousands of shares and comments commending the trooper and the rescue team.
Luckily, a community member saw what was happening and alerted authorities. Their intervention may well have saved multiple animals' lives. Demand authorities ban this person from ever living with or owning animals again!
This uplifting tale serves as a reminder of the impact of compassion and the collective effort to protect the most vulnerable among us. It highlights how a community of individuals—each playing their part—can come together to save a life. Carlo’s journey from a perilous roadside to a promising future in the wild is a testament to the goodness that still exists in the world.
Toledo, United States.
