Last August, the team at Raven Ridge Wildlife Center (RRWC) got an urgent call about a mysterious, sickly creature wandering a Lancaster, Pennsylvania neighborhood. Residents had spotted the animal for weeks, but no one could get close enough to help.
“Dee and several of her neighbors noticed the fox was thin and showing signs of mange,” RRWC shared on Facebook.
Recognizing how serious her condition looked from afar, the neighbors spent weeks attempting to safely capture her. After several unsuccessful tries, they finally managed to contain the frightened fox — and immediately called RRWC.
When rescuers arrived, they quickly realized the situation was far more dire than anyone expected.
“Upon examination, we discovered that the fox was in worse condition than we had anticipated,” RRWC wrote. “While we hoped for a full recovery, we knew her rehabilitation would be long and essential.”
The fox was suffering from advanced mange, a debilitating skin condition she had no chance of surviving on her own.
“The best treatment for a fox with mange is to trap them and bring them to a rehabilitator,” RRWC explained. “They often need additional medical care — treatment for open sores, pain management, antibiotics, and support for emaciation and dehydration.”
At the center, she was given a warm, safe place to rest, medical treatment, nutritious food, and time for her fur to grow back.
You can see more pictures of the fox’s recovery here:
Over the next several weeks, the fox’s transformation was remarkable. Staff members adjusted her environment daily to make sure she stayed comfortable and stress-free.
And after seven full weeks of care, the day they’d all been hoping for finally arrived — she was healthy enough to return home.
“This fox displayed such a unique personality throughout her rehabilitation,” RRWC wrote. “It was evident on the day of her release.”
As soon as her crate door opened, the fox bounded out joyfully, exploring her old territory with renewed energy. After a few excited laps, she paused, turned back toward her rescuers, and seemed to give one last grateful glance.
With that, she disappeared into the brush — healed, strong, and free.
For the RRWC team and the neighbors who fought to save her, the moment was pure relief.
“Trapping foxes with mange requires patience and constant monitoring,” RRWC wrote. “Thanks to the dedication of many people, this fox was given a second chance at life.”
To support RRWC’s lifesaving work for wildlife like this little fox, you can donate to Raven Ridge Wildlife Center.
