Mikayla Raines, the passionate founder of Save A Fox and a beloved figure in the animal rescue world, has tragically passed away at just 29 years old. Her husband, Ethan, shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional Instagram video, revealing she died by suicide a few days earlier.

Mikayla dedicated her life to rescuing animals others had given up on—especially foxes from fur farms. She wasn’t chasing fame or fortune. From the moment she volunteered at a wildlife rehab center at 15, her heart was set on giving a voice to the voiceless.

In 2017, she founded Save A Fox, which grew into the largest fox rescue in the U.S. Her work touched millions online, with over 2.4 million YouTube subscribers and a massive following on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. But behind the heartwarming videos was someone silently battling.

Mikayla had long struggled with mental health challenges, including autism, borderline personality disorder, and depression. According to Ethan, she faced relentless online harassment—often from others in the animal rescue community—which took a heavy toll.

“She was the most selfless person I’ve ever known,” Ethan said through tears. “But she took everything to heart.”

Just a day before her passing, Mikayla had posted a cheerful video with one of her lemurs. No one could have known it would be her last.

Mikayla leaves behind her husband, their young daughter Freya, and a legacy of compassion. Ethan has vowed to continue her mission, asking for the community’s support to carry her dream forward.

“She changed lives,” he said. “Not just animal lives—human ones too.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.