It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic passing of SaveAFox founder Mikayla Raines at the age of 29. Her husband, Ethan, shared the heartbreaking news in a deeply moving Instagram post, leaving the animal welfare community she inspired and touched in a state of mourning.
SaveAFox is a nonprofit rescue organization serving as a sanctuary of second chances for countless foxes and other rescued animals. These animals, previously discarded by the fur trade, exotic pet industry, and failed private ownership, have found refuge and renewed hope under the sanctuary’s care.
Mikayla Raines has dedicated over a decade to working with foxes, a passion rooted in her childhood experiences assisting her mother, who is a wildlife rehabilitator. At the age of 15, Mikayla rescued and raised her first fox, marking the beginning of her journey. By 18, she had earned her license as a wildlife rehabilitator and pursued studies to become a veterinary technician. However, she ultimately found her true calling in rescuing captive-born domestic foxes.
In 2017, Mikayla established SaveAFox Rescue, a nonprofit organization that has since saved thousands of animals by offering them medical care, socialization, and permanent homes. Committed to ensuring these animals receive the love and safety they deserve, Mikayla has dedicated her life to this mission. Her videos and updates have brought joy to millions, raising awareness and inspiring many to appreciate the vital role of animal rescue and rehabilitation.
In an emotional tribute, her husband Ethan spoke about the immense challenges Mikayla endured in silence. Despite her unwavering strength and the joy she brought to those around her, she was subjected to relentless bullying, a burden no one should ever have to endure.
Ethan has vowed to carry on Mikayla’s mission, promising to honor her legacy by continuing the work she devoted her life to, saying, “I gave Mikayla all my love and energy, and I will do the same with this rescue going forward. That’s what Mikayla would want.”
Mikayla is survived by her husband, Ethan, and their young daughter, Freya. Ethan shared that Mikayla was a devoted mother who taught Freya, even at a young age, how to treat animals with love, compassion, and respect.
Let us honor Mikayla by continuing her legacy to ensure her beloved foxes are cared for. We must embrace compassion for animals and each other, carrying her light forward to help save more animals in need.
Please consider making a donation to SaveAFox Rescue. Your support will keep her legacy alive and ensure that the animals she loved so dearly continue to receive the care they deserve. Donate HERE!
Rest in Heaven, Mikayla. Your presence transformed the world into a place of greater kindness and compassion.
Bullying, whether online or in person, can inflict lifelong wounds. Words have power, and we rarely know the battles others are facing in silence. Please choose kindness. Your words may be someone’s breaking point or their lifeline.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
