Science
Northwest Indiana Wildlife Center Treats Third Sick Fox in a Week
Northwest Indiana – A young fox suffering from a severe case of mange is receiving treatment at Humane Indiana Wildlife as the rehabilitation center reports a difficult seasonal increase in sick and i
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-07T12:16:00.693Z
Northwest Indiana – A young fox suffering from a severe case of mange is receiving treatment at Humane Indiana Wildlife as the rehabilitation center reports a difficult seasonal increase in sick and injured wildlife.
According to Humane Indiana Wildlife, the fox is the third young fox brought to its wildlife center within a week. Staff described the animal as having a moderately severe case of mange, a condition caused by mites that can lead to significant fur loss and other health problems.
The organization said the fox has been started on antibiotics and given Bravecto to kill the mites causing the condition. Staff members expect the animal to look significantly different within the next several weeks as treatment continues.
The two foxes that arrived before the latest patient did not survive, according to the organization. Humane Indiana Wildlife said the first fox, admitted from Valparaiso last week, died from rodenticide poisoning. A second young fox had reportedly been struck by a vehicle and suffered severe internal injuries.
The organization said this time of year can be particularly challenging for wildlife rehabilitation. While fewer healthy young animals are arriving to be raised and released, staff members are seeing animals affected by poisoning, mange, vehicle strikes and disease, along with juvenile birds of prey struggling to thrive.
Humane Indiana Wildlife also credited members of the public who rescue animals and bring them to the center, as well as supporters who help provide diagnostic services such as X rays.
The nonprofit is seeking donations to support treatment for wildlife in need. Contributions can be made through HumaneIndiana.org/donate by selecting wildlife from the donation options.