Pawsitive Beginnings Celebrates Five Years of Rescuing Foxes, Calls for Donations
Pawsitive Beginnings, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe, permanent homes for foxes rescued from the fur trade, celebrated its fifth anniversary in March with a call for donations. The funds will support upgrades to the foxes’ enclosures and expand the group’s unique human-animal therapy program.
Since its founding, Pawsitive Beginnings has offered sanctuary to eight foxes, currently caring for seven after one, Libby, passed away due to genetic health complications. Founder Nicole Navarro explained that the organization collaborates with groups in regions where fur farming is common, helping place foxes in need. “If we can’t take them in directly, we work with trusted rescues to ensure each fox finds a qualified caregiver,” she said.
Beyond rescue efforts, Pawsitive Beginnings runs an innovative animal-assisted therapy program in the Florida Keys, where therapists use the foxes’ stories to inspire trauma survivors. Navarro emphasized that foxes bred for fur cannot be released into the wild. Generations of captivity have stripped them of survival skills, and many have distinctive coloring that makes them easy prey. Additionally, releasing non-native species is illegal, classifying these foxes as permanent sanctuary residents.
“We provide them with a safe, loving home and work with veterinarians to meet their medical needs,” Navarro said. She hopes to raise funds for upgraded enclosures using black, rubber-coated wire, which is more durable, comfortable, and resistant to Florida’s salty air. The organization also aims to grow its therapy program.
Recognized for its transparency and impact, Pawsitive Beginnings holds a Platinum Seal from Guidestar.org and is rated a top nonprofit by Great Non-Profits. Through rescue and rehabilitation, the group continues to give foxes a second chance while healing human lives.
