“We have this bond that transcends verbal communication… I feel grateful and fortunate that I have the opportunity to build this relationship with him.”
The Arctic region is the habitat of the Arctic fox. Typically, they inhabit areas near the sea in mountains and tundra.
The Arctic fox population is stable, with several hundred thousand individuals in the wild, and it is considered a species of least concern.
Despite the wild nature of foxes of all species, many people still wish to keep them as pets.
Only 15 states, however, allow ownership of foxes, and not all species of foxes are permitted in these 15 states.
Foxes are considered as “intrinsically risky” wild predators. Their elevated levels of energy, vocalization, and innate urge to establish their territory make them challenging to handle.
Elderly sightless Arctic fox Archie was left at a Colorado dog shelter when he turned eight years old.
Either his caretakers were incapable of providing proper care for him or no longer wished to keep him.
He arrived from Colorado and wound up at a fox rescue in Minnesota, which he didn’t enjoy. He had no desire to depart or encounter any other foxes during his stay.
In due course, he found himself at Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue, a sanctuary for animals with a dual rescue mission.
The initial stage involves providing a permanent refuge for foxes born in captivity who cannot be released. The second phase involves rehabilitating local species in New York with the goal of reintroducing them into the wild.
As per Kimberly DeFisher, founder of Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue, “When Archie first arrived here, he was definitely extremely timid, but what’s really great is that Archie, fast-forward a little bit, has completely broken out of his shell.”
Archie recognizes the word “treat” and allows Kimberly to touch him after she gives a warning.
Although Archie was born blind, Kimberly explained to GeoBeats Animals that he occasionally bumps into objects but remembers his boundaries. Lulu, another companion of Archie’s, keeps him company.
Archie and Lulu occasionally have play dates with Tundra and Cleo, another fox couple from the refuge.
“Many people wonder why I dedicate so much time and effort to these animals, whom some may consider unworthy. I’ve seen 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 remarked that Archie was enjoying his life to the fullest and that the experience had exceeded her expectations in terms of satisfaction.
Kimberly observed that many of the animals under her care lack the instincts of their wild counterparts, making them incapable of surviving the weather, hunting, or gathering enough food on their own.
She further mentioned that Archie is approaching the average age of an Arctic fox, which is approximately 10 years old. Kimberly is ensuring that he has a happy and fulfilling last few years.
She expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to develop a relationship with him, feeling blessed.
This video has amassed over a million views, with numerous viewers expressing admiration for Archie as well.
“Archie is truly delightful. I’m thrilled that you rescued him; showing kindness and love to animals should always be a priority. He’s still stunning, as mentioned in a comment.
There are no animals that are “too old” or “not worth the time and effort.” Another commenter expressed gratitude to Arctic Fox Daily and anyone who recognizes the inherent value of animals with whom we share our world.
Given the specialized care and time-intensive requirements, we hope people will reconsider their desire to own a fox. There are many dogs in shelters who are easier to care for at home and in need of homes.”
Rewritten Source: https://www.androdass.com/2023/01/woman-sees-elderly-and-blind-arctic-fox.html