“We share a connection that doesn’t even require verbal communication… I feel grateful and fortunate to have the opportunity to build this bond with him.”
The Arctic region serves as the habitat for the Arctic fox. Typically, they inhabit areas near the sea, such as mountains and tundra.
The population of Arctic foxes is stable, with several hundred thousand individuals in the wild, and they are categorized as a species of least concern.
Despite being considered wild animals, many people still wish to keep foxes as pets.
However, only 15 states permit fox ownership, and not all species of foxes are allowed in these states.
Foxes are considered inherently dangerous due to their wild nature and predatory instincts. Their high energy levels, vocalizations, and territorial behavior make them challenging to care for.
Archie, a senior blind Arctic fox, was abandoned at a Colorado dog shelter when he was eight years old.
It’s possible that his previous owners either couldn’t provide proper care for him or no longer wanted him.
He was then transferred from Colorado to a Minnesota fox rescue, where he felt uncomfortable and didn’t want to interact with other foxes.
Eventually, he found his way to Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue, a sanctuary with a dual rescue mission.
The first aspect involves providing a permanent home for captive-born foxes that cannot be released into the wild. The second facet focuses on rehabilitating native species in New York with the aim of eventually releasing them back into their natural habitat.
According to Kimberly DeFisher, the founder of Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue, “When Archie first arrived here, he was incredibly shy, but what’s truly remarkable is that Archie, after some time, has completely come out of his shell.”
Archie responds to the word “treat” and allows Kimberly to touch him after she gives a warning.
Archie was born blind, but according to Kimberly’s explanation to GeoBeats Animals, he sometimes bumps into things but remembers his boundaries. Lulu, another friend of Archie’s, keeps him company.
Archie and Lulu occasionally have playdates with Tundra and Cleo, another fox couple from the sanctuary.
“Many people wonder why I dedicate so much time and effort to these animals, whom some might consider unworthy. I have witnessed the positive impact of providing them with a happy life, and that has motivated me to work even harder to ensure Archie has the happiest life possible,” Kimberly added.
She mentioned that Archie is living his best life, and the experience has been even more rewarding than she had expected.
Kimberly noted that many of the animals in her care lack the instincts of their wild counterparts. They wouldn’t be able to survive the elements, hunt, or gather sufficient food on their own.
Archie is approaching the average age of an Arctic fox, which is around 10 years old. Kimberly is ensuring that he has joyful and fulfilling remaining years.
“I feel grateful and blessed to have the opportunity to develop this relationship with him,” she said.
The video has garnered over a million views, and numerous viewers have expressed their admiration for Archie.
“Archie is truly adorable. I’m delighted you rescued him; kindness and love should always be shown to animals. He’s still beautiful,” one comment read.
“No animal is ‘too old’ or ‘not worth the time and effort.’ Thank you to Arctic Fox Daily and everyone who recognizes the unmeasurable value of the animals we share this world with,” another commenter said.
Given the special needs that demand significant time and effort to fulfill, it is hoped that many people will reconsider their desire to own a fox. Since there are many dogs in shelters needing homes and are easier to care for, adopting a dog might be a better choice.
You can watch the video featuring Archie, the blind Arctic fox, below!
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