When Max first arrived, he was in a pitiful state. Initially rescued due to a leg injury, it quickly became apparent what his issue was…severe mange! With large patches of his skin bare and sore, his left knee was also badly swollen, with crepitus (a grinding sensation) and little ability to move it, making every step incredibly painful.
Initial X-rays brought some relief – there were no fractures – but they did reveal significant inflammation in the tissue around the joint, possibly a result of infection. Aloe vera gel was gently applied to soothe his irritated skin while the veterinary team began a careful treatment plan.
It soon became clear that Max’s battle was not just skin-deep. In his second week of care, he suffered seizures and his condition deteriorated rapidly, showing signs that he was on the verge of going into septic shock. Quick intervention by the team, including fluids, antibiotics, and supportive medication, kept him stable. It was touch-and-go for a while, but Max’s fighting spirit began to shine through.
Day by day, Max grew stronger. The swelling in his knee slowly subsided, his skin began to heal under the combined treatment for mange, and his fur started to grow back. Though he was still wary of humans, he seemed to understand that the hands caring for him meant safety, not harm. His energy returned, and before long he was pacing his enclosure, testing his legs and watching the world outside with bright, eager eyes.
After 43 days in our care, the vet gave Max the all-clear. His knee had regained full movement, his coat had grown back thick and healthy, and the once-weak cub now stood tall, fit, and ready for the wild again. We released him back into his home territory – just in time for dispersal season, when young foxes set off to find their own patch of ground.
Max’s journey from the brink of septic shock to a strong, free fox is a testament to the resilience of wildlife and the dedication of those who care for them. Thanks to swift action, expert veterinary care, and a little aloe vera comfort along the way, Max got his second chance at life and we hope he’s now out there, thriving in the wild, where he belongs.
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Could provide medicine for a sick animal
