When a conscientious homeowner noticed a peculiar animal living near their backyard, they grew immediate concern. The frail, hairless creature was not only difficult to identify, but also clearly in distress. Determined to help, the homeowner devised a plan to capture the animal and ensure its safety—though the task was more challenging than anticipated.
Despite its poor health, the elusive animal proved incredibly resourceful, dodging capture for several weeks. Yet, the rescuers were undeterred and ultimately managed to secure its safety.
Upon capture, the animal was transferred to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota (WRC). There, it was revealed that this mysterious being was, in fact, a fox. The poor creature was emaciated, dehydrated, and suffering from a severe case of mange. The dedicated rescuers knew the road to recovery would be long but were committed to seeing it through.
“Before his arrival at WRC, this young red fox endured weeks of cold, hunger, and immense discomfort due to mites burrowing under his skin, leading to severe mange,” the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota wrote on Facebook. “He came to our clinic almost entirely furless, with visible ribs, and a fractured tail that required partial amputation.”
Once in care, his rescuers quickly understood why the fox had been so adept at evading capture.
“Despite his missing fur and lack of body fat, he was full of spirit,” the center shared. “The homeowner even wanted to share a video of him evading capture, demonstrating his remarkable cleverness—a trait we noticed immediately. He put our staff’s creativity to the test as we worked to keep him entertained and safe during his stay. His medical care and rehabilitation were generously funded by supporters who responded to our request for assistance in caring for mange-affected foxes. Thank you!”
After more than a month of intensive care, the spirited fox was finally ready to return to the wild where he belonged.
“After 43 days in our hospital, his recovery was outstanding, and his beautiful new coat had begun to grow back,” the center reported. “It was clear to all that this fox was more than ready to go home, and once our vets confirmed he no longer required supportive care, he was released back into the wild.”
Upon his release, the fox exuberantly leapt from his crate, bounding away into his natural habitat. Before disappearing, he paused to glance back, seemingly in appreciation of those who had saved him.
“Our patients can’t verbally thank us, but this fox’s jubilant leap from his kennel and his brief look back at his caretakers are moments we will always cherish,” the center noted. “On behalf of the fox, thank YOU for supporting WRC and making such rescues possible!”
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