Mikayla Raines was a passionate animal advocate and the founder of Save A Fox, an animal rescue organisation specialising in the care and rehabilitation of foxes. What began in 2016 as a small effort when Mikayla was just 20 years old, grew into the largest fox rescue operation in the United States, with locations in Minnesota and Florida.
Through her dedication, Mikayla rescued and rehomed hundreds of foxes, many of them saved from the cruel fur farming industry. Her mission and her love for animals resonated with millions. On Instagram, Mikayla amassed over 500,000 followers, while her YouTube channel, Saveafox, had over 2.4 million subscribers. Her videos, often showing the playful, affectionate nature of the foxes in her care, inspired people all over the world.
Mikayla was known for her authenticity and her tireless devotion to animal welfare. Her husband Ethan said: “She was never in it for fame, money or personal gain. She was truly one of the most selfless people I have ever known.”
Mikayla, who was on the autism spectrum, also lived with borderline personality disorder and depression. Her husband explained that while her neurodiversity made life more challenging in some ways, it also allowed her to hyperfocus on her passion—rescuing animals. “From a young age she dedicated every waking hour of her life to helping them, whether it was helping a snapping turtle cross the road or saving 500 foxes from a terrible fur farm,” Ethan said.
The couple shared a daughter, Freya.
The Impact of Online Abuse
In his heartfelt statement, Ethan emphasised that in addition to her existing mental health struggles, the persistent online harassment Mikayla faced contributed to her death. He said some of the most painful attacks came from people within the animal rescue community itself.
“I think all of this stems from jealousy and envy,” he said. “Rude words, accusations, and name-calling came from some of those she considered close friends.”
Her passing has reignited conversations about the dangers of cyberbullying, particularly towards those who already face mental health challenges.
An Outpouring of Grief
Following the announcement, tributes flooded social media from fans, fellow rescuers, and people whose lives were touched by Mikayla’s work.
One fox rescuer wrote: “This is so tragic. So many in our community have foxes that only came to us because of Mikayla’s dedication to her mission and empathy toward animals. We will all carry a small piece of her light that lives on through them.”
Another added: “Mikayla was an incredible person and helped inspire me over a decade ago as we grew into operating animal rescues.”
A supporter shared: “She has done more good in her short life than 1,000 people could do. She saved hundreds of innocent souls from suffering. We are all proud of her, and we send our support from all over the world.”
One YouTube viewer wrote: “Mikayla inspired me to become a wildlife rescuer and carer in Australia. I have saved thousands of animals and helped coordinate supply drops during bushfires. Her life impacted so many people. I hope the people responsible are held accountable.”
Another said: “RIP Mikayla. She kept us going through the COVID lockdowns. She’ll be missed greatly. Condolences.”
Her husband described her passing as “a loss that is unimaginable” and said he felt “broken”.
“Mikayla was truly the most amazing and inspiring individual I have ever known, and not having her here makes everything feel empty,” he said.
A Lasting Legacy
Mikayla’s legacy will live on through the hundreds of animals she saved, the community she built, and the countless people she inspired to dedicate their lives to animal welfare.
If you are experiencing online bullying and trolling, block and report those responsible and then move on. Don’t let the bastards grind you down!
