A yearlong struggle for survival and rescue has come to a joyful conclusion as four Russian foxes have safely arrived in San Diego County.
Animal conservationist Amy Bassett acted as a dedicated advocate for the foxes, pledging to give them a new start away from the cramped cages of a research facility in Siberia.
Determined to prevent their possible euthanasia, Bassett promised to bring the foxes to the Judith A. Bassett Canid Education and Conservation Center in Santa Ysabel, California.
Having previously rescued a dozen similar foxes, Bassett was unaware of the challenges that lay ahead in this particular rescue mission.
The foxes, named Alexei, Anya, Besha, Lyudmila, and Valentina Maria, were not just caught up in shipping logistics; they faced geopolitical conflicts and even missile attacks during their journey.
Bassett’s commitment to these foxes was unwavering. “It’s no man gets left behind,” she asserted, emphasizing that the four’s freedom hinged on her determination not to let them down.
After finally overcoming shipping restrictions between the U.S. and Russia, she believed the most difficult part was behind her when the foxes were booked for a flight from Moscow.
However, their flight almost took a dangerous turn when Iran launched missiles targeting a U.S. military base near Qatar just as the foxes were en route.
Bassett was anxiously monitoring the flight tracker when the news of the missile strikes broke. “My foxes are literally flying in the air to Qatar,” she recalled, filled with concern.
Fortunately, the foxes arrived in Qatar without harm, but their ordeal continued as flights were grounded due to the missile attacks.
In a desperate effort to ensure their well-being, Bassett began a campaign to get them the help they needed while they remained in small crates, waiting without water.
Her persistence paid off when Qatar’s airspace reopened, allowing the foxes’ journey to continue two days later.
Upon arriving at Los Angeles International Airport, Bassett met the foxes for the first time. They were frightened and undernourished, surrounded by unfamiliar faces.
Despite not being able to meet them previously due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Bassett quickly established a bond with the foxes.
These particular foxes are a rare breed that researchers have genetically selected for their friendly disposition, contrasting the typical portrayal of foxes as sly or elusive creatures in folklore.
After two weeks in California, the foxes have started to adapt to their new environment, gradually shedding their initial fearfulness.
The staff at the conservation center is devoting time and love to help the foxes recover from the stresses of their past lives.
In a few months, once they feel secure and comfortable, the foxes may participate in educational programs, allowing local residents to interact, observe, and learn about their unique behavior.
For the time being, the foxes are relishing their new home, which is filled with ample treats, toys, and affection from Bassett and her dedicated team.
As Bassett pointed out, “We’ll just see how their personalities start to shine and come out. They tell us who they want to be.”
In an effort to improve the living conditions for the foxes at the conservation center, the public can contribute donations for constructing larger enclosures through the center’s website.
This journey not only represents a remarkable rescue for these four special creatures but also highlights the commitment and passion of individuals like Amy Bassett in the realm of animal conservation.
image source from：timesofsandiego
