From the outside, Boots looks just like any other fox — sleek copper fur, warm brown eyes, and a tail that swishes with every bound. But beneath that picture-perfect exterior, he’s unlike most of his kind.
Instead of stalking prey, Boots prefers snuggles. Rather than digging dens or playing with other foxes, he seeks out the gentle company of the caretakers at Newhouse Wildlife Rescue. Since arriving there, one thing has become clear — Boots is far too friendly to ever survive on his own in the wild.
His story began last March when a Reading, Massachusetts, animal control officer discovered him soaked and trembling in the rain. The tiny, six-week-old kit was curled into a wet ball when he was brought to Newhouse Wildlife Rescue. Founder Jane Newhouse quickly placed him in an incubator to warm up and regain strength.
“He cried constantly for his mom,” Newhouse told The Dodo. It soon became clear that something else was wrong. Boots struggled to walk, and a veterinary exam revealed an abscess on his head. After the abscess was drained and his minor infections treated, he seemed to recover well.
For a while, everything looked hopeful. Boots joined four other young foxes for socialization, playing and learning the skills he’d need to return to nature. But as time passed, he began drifting away from the group — and toward the humans who cared for him.
“He always wanted to interact with us,” Newhouse said. “But once the foxes move outdoors, we try to keep our distance so they don’t get too comfortable with people.”
Then, she noticed his jaw drooping. A CT scan brought the answer: neurological damage, most likely the result of hydrocephalus, a condition where fluid builds up in the brain. Parts of Boots’ brain, including the region tied to his sense of smell, hadn’t formed properly. He would never be able to hunt or fend for himself.
Though the diagnosis was heartbreaking, it gave clarity — Boots could not return to the wild. So when his enclosure-mates were released, Newhouse gave her team permission to finally shower him with affection.
“He’s by himself, fully vaccinated, and can’t survive outside,” she said. “He just needs companionship.”
In a Facebook update, Newhouse Wildlife Rescue noted that Boots was the first of over 80 foxes they’ve cared for who couldn’t be released — emphasizing that his situation is rare and that people should never try to befriend wild foxes.
Now, Boots thrives on human attention. He races to greet staff, rolls onto his back for belly rubs, and seems to radiate joy. Despite his challenges, Newhouse says he’s living a happy, comfortable life.
With autumn approaching, the rescue expects a wave of new arrivals, meaning Boots will soon need a new home. Newhouse is working with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to find a sanctuary where he can continue to live safely and loved.
She doesn’t know where he’ll go yet, but one thing’s certain: “I’m really going to miss him.”