Islamabad, June 26, 2025: Mikayla Raines, the founder of the Minnesota-based Save A Fox rescue who gained recognition on YouTube for her commitment to animal welfare, has died by suicide at the age of 29, as confirmed by her husband.
In a video posted on the rescue’s Facebook page on Monday, her husband, Ethan Raines, shared that she passed away on Saturday.
“From a very early age, she devoted every moment of her life to aiding animals — whether it was helping a snapping turtle get safely across a road or rescuing 500 foxes from a cruel fur farm. She never did it for popularity, wealth, or any personal benefit,” said Ethan Raines.
He mentioned that his wife rescued countless animals during her life and was also a “loving wife and devoted mother.”
Ethan explained in the video that his wife “dealt with autism, depression, borderline personality disorder, among other challenges,” and was a vocal supporter of autism awareness.
He also stated that she faced a significant amount of cyberbullying, including from individuals she once regarded as close companions.
“If all you can offer is harmful criticism, just stay silent,” he said. “And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or lost, please talk to someone — be it loved ones or a support hotline.”
Ethan Raines mentioned plans to organize a gathering in her memory “so that everyone can come together and say their goodbyes.”
“I gave Mikayla all of my affection and effort, and I intend to do the same for this rescue in the future,” he added. “As long as you all continue to stand by us, we’ll make it through.”
READ MORE: PARC Launches Animal Protection Initiative on August 14th
Mikayla Raines launched Save A Fox in Lakeville in 2017, but soon encountered issues with the City Council for breaching her permit by sheltering more than double the permitted number of foxes and enlarging her property’s fencing, as per city authorities.
“Most of the foxes we take in—about ninety percent—are eventually placed in new homes,” she told WCCO in 2017. “I see them as part of my family.”
READ MORE: WWF Pakistan Opposes Transfer of Snow Leopards to Russia
Despite having her permit revoked, she managed to raise $60,000 in donations over just three months, allowing her to relocate the operation to a larger facility near Faribault in Rice County.
Mikayla told WCCO that she began rescuing animals in her teenage years, taking in her first fox at the age of 19.
“These foxes need somewhere safe to go, and I want to provide that,” she said in 2019. “And I’ll do whatever is needed to make it happen.”
Read More: Maria Wasti Reveals Reason for Showbiz Break
