The Tragic Loss of Mikayla Raines: A Life Devoted to Wildlife Rehabilitation

Mikayla Raines, the passionate and trailblazing wildlife rehabilitator behind SaveAFox Rescue in Lakeville, Minnesota, died by suicide in early June 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to animal welfare. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the animal welfare community, and thousands of social media followers are reeling from grief .

A Life of Purpose and Passion
Mikayla’s journey with wildlife began as a teenager, when she volunteered under a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and bottle-fed her first fox.

This moment ignited a lifelong mission to protect and care for animals, particularly foxes. In 2017, she founded SaveAFox Rescue, a USDA- and DNR-licensed 501(c)(3) facility dedicated to rescuing captive-born, non-releasable foxes from fur farms, private surrenders, and illegal situations .

SaveAFox Rescue: A Sanctuary for Foxes
Under Mikayla’s guidance, SaveAFox Rescue saved more than 150 foxes, offering them forever homes and educating the public on their complex needs.

The organization reported revenue exceeding $1.3 million in 2023 and had a significant presence on social media, with nearly 900,000 Facebook followers. Mikayla’s approach was deeply personal, and she intimately connected with each animal, bottle-raising orphaned pups, coordinating veterinary care, managing licensing, and organizing fundraisers .

A Charismatic Leader and Advocate
Mikayla was a charismatic leader who inspired many with her dedication and passion for animal welfare. She was described as “someone who has done more for foxes than anyone else on the planet” by those who knew her work. Her facility became a network of volunteers, sponsors, and dedicated supporters who were drawn to her joyful YouTube content and tireless public outreach .

The Impact of Online Harassment and Bullying
Despite her public persona, Mikayla carried an emotional burden that few could see. Reports indicate that she had been fighting deep emotional pain, exacerbated by a campaign of relentless online harassment and bullying. According to a statement by her husband, Ethan, shared in a widely viewed video, the targeted cruelty took a serious toll on Mikayla’s mental health .

A Legacy of Love and Compassion
Mikayla’s passing is a devastating loss to the animal rescue community and to all who knew her or followed her work. Memorials poured in from around the world, with supporters donating to her rescue, posting memories of seeing foxes thrive under her care, and celebrating her warmth, resilience, and humor. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, and the paths she cleared for animal welfare .

Continuing Her Mission
Mikayla’s husband, Ethan, and their young daughter Freya are left to carry on her mission. The rescue itself continues to operate under a vacant directorship, supported by dedicated staff and volunteers. Many have pledged to support the rescue’s mission in Mikayla’s memory, donating, sponsoring foxes, and continuing her educational outreach .

A Reminder of the Importance of Kindness and Support
Mikayla’s passing is a reminder that even those who inspire and uplift can be silently hurting. As the rescue community mourns, they also speak out against the destructive power of online bullying. Her family hopes her story will prompt reflection and action to foster kindness, recognize the signs of mental distress, and support those in need before it’s too late .