A 64-year-old woman, Jodi Proger, tragically lost her life to a deer she had rescued and tried to make into a pet when the deer unexpectedly attacked her inside an enclosure. Jodi’s journey with rescuing deer began in 2013 after witnessing a doe’s death on a highway.

One particular incident involved Jodi saving a days-old fawn, which she named Wheezer, from near its deceased mother on the roadside. Despite facing opposition from authorities, Jodi successfully kept Wheezer under her care.

Describing Wheezer as akin to a dog, Jodi dedicated a Facebook page to the deer, showcasing their adventures together in various themed outfits on festive occasions. Before her untimely demise, Jodi had also rescued and cared for four other deer, as documented in her social media posts.

Following the tragic incident, Jodi’s daughter clarified that Wheezer was not responsible for the fatal attack, emphasizing that Jodi followed all regulations, including neutering the deer as required by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Acknowledging her mother’s passion for animal rescue, Jennifer Bryan highlighted Jodi’s dedication and expertise in caring for wildlife. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jodi’s death has been initiated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Although deer-related fatalities in the US are primarily linked to vehicle collisions, the incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with wildlife interaction.