Mikayla Raines, Founder of Save a Fox, Remembered for Her Compassion and Courage After Tragic Passing
The animal rescue community is mourning the loss of Mikayla Raines, the passionate founder of Save a Fox, whose life was dedicated to protecting one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures. On June 23, 2025, her husband Ethan Raines shared a heartbreaking video announcing that Mikayla had passed away, revealing that she died by suicide after a long battle with mental illness and years of online harassment.
Her passing has sent shockwaves through the online animal rescue world, where Mikayla had built not only a nonprofit, but a deeply personal bond with a global audience who followed her journey with rescued foxes.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Mikayla’s love for animals began in her teenage years. At just 15, she encountered her first fox—and the experience would change her life forever. She felt a deep connection to the misunderstood animals, and her mission quickly became clear. Forgoing a traditional path, she later left college to pursue fox rescue full time, eventually founding Save a Fox, one of the most well-known fox sanctuaries in the United States.
From rehabilitating abandoned pets to orchestrating large-scale rescues—including the shutdown of an active fur farm—Mikayla poured everything into her work. Through her engaging YouTube and TikTok content, she educated millions about fox behavior, ethical rescue practices, and the realities of the exotic pet trade.
Her followers didn’t just watch videos—they got to know the individual animals she saved, many of whom became online icons in their own right.
Private Struggles Behind a Public Smile
While her videos often showcased joy, laughter, and adorable animals, Mikayla was quietly fighting her own internal battles. According to her husband Ethan, she had long struggled with depression and borderline personality disorder—a condition that left her emotionally vulnerable to criticism and isolation.
“She was incredibly empathetic,” Ethan shared in the emotional video. “That was her greatest strength—and also her greatest burden. Every cruel word stayed with her. Every online attack—especially from people in the same rescue space—cut deeply.”
Despite receiving love from fans worldwide, Mikayla also endured years of online bullying, much of it from within the very community she was trying to help. According to Ethan, the relentless criticism and cyberbullying eventually became too much.
“This time, it went too far,” he said. “She felt alone, even when surrounded by love.”
A Legacy Rooted in Compassion
In the wake of her death, tributes have poured in from every corner of the internet. Fellow rescuers, fans, and animal welfare advocates shared memories of Mikayla’s kindness, her infectious energy, and the powerful impact she made on both people and animals.
“She made me care about foxes when I never even thought about them before,” one fan wrote. “She opened my eyes—and my heart.”
Beyond her social media reach, Mikayla’s impact is tangible: she saved hundreds of animals, dismantled unethical breeding operations, and inspired others to launch their own rescue missions.
Mikayla also leaves behind her young daughter, Freya, whom Ethan describes as “the light of her life.” In his statement, he emphasized that Mikayla’s spirit and mission will continue through the sanctuary and the community she built.
Continuing Her Mission
Save a Fox remains operational and plans to carry forward Mikayla’s work in her honor. Ethan has asked supporters to continue spreading awareness, adopting compassion, and speaking out against bullying—especially in digital spaces where words can carry enormous weight.
To those who followed Mikayla’s journey, her loss is personal. She wasn’t just a rescuer—she was a healer, an advocate, and a reminder that gentleness is strength.
“Mikayla lived for the animals. She loved fiercely. She gave more than she took. And now, it’s up to us to carry that forward.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or mental illness, help is available. In the U.S., call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support, 24/7.