The animal that was found shot and skinned is a coyote, the Chief Mami County dog warden determined Thursday.

Director Marcia Doncaster said the animal shelter received a call about the animal, which had been left on the side of Rangeline Road.

The medium-sized animal had single bullet wounds to the head and chest, then skinned. “Whoever did it knew what they were doing,” Doncaster said.

It appears the coyote was neutered in the skinning process, according to the Doncaster.

An animal cruelty investigation has been opened, Doncaster said.

The Miami County County Sheriff’s Office is now involved in the investigation as well.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Miami County Animal Shelter at (937) 332-6919.