Arctic foxes are native to the cold regions of the Arctic, often found in mountainous areas and tundra close to the sea. Their population in the wild is healthy, with several hundred thousand individuals, making them a species of least concern. Despite being wild animals, some people are interested in keeping them as pets. However, only 15 states in the U.S. permit fox ownership, and even then, not all species of foxes are allowed. Foxes are known to be undomesticated predators and are labeled as “inherently dangerous.” They are challenging to care for due to their high energy levels, loud vocalizations, and strong instinct to mark their territory.

Archie, a senior blind Arctic fox, was left at a dog shelter in Colorado when he was eight years old. His previous owners either could not take care of him properly or no longer wanted him. From Colorado, Archie was moved to a fox rescue in Minnesota. Unfortunately, he did not like it there and stayed in his enclosure, not wanting to come out or interact with other foxes. Eventually, Archie found a new home at Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue, an animal sanctuary with a two-part mission: providing a permanent home for captive-bred and non-releasable foxes and rehabilitating New York native wildlife for release back into the wild.

“When Archie first got here, he was definitely very reserved, but what’s really cool is that Archie, fast forward a little bit, has completely come out of his shell,” shared Kimberly DeFisher, founder of Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue. Archie has learned to understand the word “treat” and allows Kimberly to touch him when she uses the word “touch.” Since Archie was born blind, he sometimes bumps into things, but he quickly remembers his surroundings. Archie also has a girlfriend named Lulu who keeps him company. Sometimes, Archie and Lulu have playdates with another fox couple at the sanctuary, Tundra and Cleo.

“A lot of people wonder why I put so much time and energy into these animals who others might think just aren’t worth it. I’ve seen the reward of giving them a happy life, and it made me even want to try harder with Archie, to see if I could give him the happiest life ever,” Kimberly said. She explained that this experience has been more rewarding than she ever thought it would be, and Archie is now living his best life.

Kimberly also mentioned that many of the animals she cares for do not have the instincts that their wild counterparts have. This means they wouldn’t be able to survive in the wild because they can’t withstand the elements or hunt for food on their own. As Archie is nearing ten years old, which is the average lifespan of an Arctic fox, Kimberly is committed to making sure he spends his last few years happy and enjoying life. “I feel thankful and blessed that I have an opportunity to form this relationship with him,” she shared.

Archie’s story has touched the hearts of many people, with more than a million views on a video about him. People have shared their love and support for Archie. One comment said, “Archie is so beautiful. So glad you rescued him, every animal deserves love and human kindness. He’s just as beautiful as ever.” Another commenter added, “No such thing as an animal that is ‘too old’ or ‘not worth the time and effort.’ Thank you Arctic Fox Daily and all who understand the untold value of the animals that we share our spaces with.”

This heartwarming story of Archie highlights the special needs of foxes and encourages people to think twice before wanting to own one as a pet. Many dogs in shelters need homes and are much easier to care for in a domestic setting.

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