On June 23, 2025, Ethan Raines, the husband of Mikayla Raines, shared the heartbreaking news of her passing in an emotional video. Mikayla, the beloved YouTuber and founder of Save a Fox, had been a passionate advocate for animals, especially foxes, dedicating her life to rescuing them from inhumane conditions. However, behind her strength and public persona, Mikayla had long struggled with mental health issues, including depression and borderline personality disorder. Her death by suicide was a tragic result of the online bullying and personal pain she endured for years.
Mikayla’s Struggles with Mental Health and Online Bullying
Mikayla’s mental health struggles were a private battle that she bravely faced while continuing her public work. As Ethan shared in his video, Mikayla was deeply sensitive, a trait that made her incredibly empathetic toward others. However, it also meant that she absorbed every cruel comment or word thrown her way, especially online. This sensitivity, while part of what made her such a compassionate person, also left her vulnerable to the harsh criticisms that plagued her.
Despite facing years of attacks—some coming from others in the animal rescue community—Mikayla never wavered in her mission. She remained committed to rescuing foxes, educating the public about the plight of animals in fur farms, and promoting kindness. But according to Ethan, “this time, it went too far.” The combination of online harassment and the toll of her own internal struggles became too much to bear, leading to a tragic end that no one saw coming.
The Passion That Started It All: Mikayla’s Early Years and Dedication to Animal Rescue
Video : YouTube Star, Founder of Save a Fox Rescue, Mikayla Raines Dies at 29
Mikayla’s journey into animal rescue began at the young age of 15. After meeting her first fox, she became captivated by their beauty and intelligence. This encounter sparked a lifelong passion for saving animals, a passion that would eventually lead her to leave college in order to dedicate her life to rescuing foxes. It was a bold decision, but Mikayla’s heart was set on one mission: to make the world a better place for animals.
Over the years, Mikayla built Save a Fox, a sanctuary that became a safe haven for hundreds of foxes. She was known not just for rescuing these animals, but for educating the public about the fur industry’s cruel practices. Her dedication to shutting down fur farms became one of her most significant accomplishments, making a real impact in the fight against animal cruelty.
The Emotional Impact: Mikayla’s Legacy Lives On
Mikayla’s passing has left a profound hole in the hearts of those who knew her, both personally and professionally. The online world, where she had built a large following, responded with an outpouring of grief and tributes. Fans, fellow rescuers, and supporters praised her strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals.
Her work, her legacy, and her message continue to resonate with people across the globe. Mikayla’s impact is most evident in the rescue work she carried out and in the lives of the many animals she saved from cruelty. Beyond that, her legacy lives on in her daughter, Freya, who will grow up with the knowledge of the incredible work her mother did.
Mikayla’s Life as a Mother: Raising Freya Amidst Struggles
Video : 💔 In Memory of Mikayla Raines (Founder of SaveAFox Rescue) 💔
Mikayla’s role as a mother was central to her life. Despite the personal struggles she faced, Mikayla was dedicated to raising her daughter, Freya, in an environment filled with love and compassion. Ethan, in his emotional tribute, shared how Mikayla poured all her heart and soul into being the best mother she could be, despite her own pain. Mikayla’s love for Freya was evident to everyone who knew her, and she always made sure that her daughter understood the importance of kindness, empathy, and standing up for what’s right.
Freya will now grow up with the immense legacy of her mother’s passion and dedication, and it’s clear that Mikayla’s mission will continue to live on through her. Mikayla’s death, though tragic, will not erase the positive changes she made in the world or the deep love she had for her daughter.
The Legacy of Save a Fox: A Mission to End Animal Cruelty
Mikayla’s work with Save a Fox will forever be remembered as one of her greatest accomplishments. Through her rescue efforts, she brought attention to the cruel practices of the fur industry and became an advocate for animals who had no voice. Save a Fox became more than just a sanctuary for foxes; it became a symbol of what one person, driven by love and compassion, can do to change the world.
Mikayla’s efforts helped to educate countless people about the importance of protecting animals and the environment. Her message of kindness, empathy, and respect for all living beings has inspired a generation of animal lovers and activists, many of whom will continue her work in the years to come.
A Call for Change: Addressing the Dangers of Online Harassment
Mikayla’s tragic end also highlights a much-needed conversation about the dangers of online harassment and its effect on mental health. For years, Mikayla endured cruelty and judgment from strangers and even from within the animal rescue community, all of which contributed to her struggles. In the wake of her death, it’s important to acknowledge the role that online bullying and harassment can play in exacerbating mental health issues.
The world of social media can be both empowering and toxic. For those who dedicate their lives to important causes, like Mikayla did, the pressure to constantly prove their worth and face public judgment can be overwhelming. Mikayla’s story serves as a reminder that kindness and compassion should extend beyond the animals we save and include the people behind the mission.
Conclusion: Mikayla’s Enduring Impact on the World
Though Mikayla Raines is no longer with us, her legacy will continue to inspire those who fight for the voiceless and protect the vulnerable. Through her work with Save a Fox, Mikayla brought light to a dark world and gave hope to countless animals that would otherwise have been forgotten. Her mission lives on through the foxes she saved, the people she inspired, and the daughter who will carry her mother’s spirit forward.
As we remember Mikayla, let us honor her memory by continuing the work she so passionately began, supporting mental health awareness, and treating each other with the kindness and respect that Mikayla exemplified every day of her life. Her story reminds us all that while we can’t always see the pain someone is facing, we can make a difference in how we treat others—both online and offline.
