Mikayla Raines: Animal activist and YouTube star takes own life after online bullying campaign

An online animal rights star has tragically taken her own life after a bullying campaign left her unable to “push through the pain”.

YouTube animal rights activist, Mikayla Raines, 29, became the target of online trolls as her fame rose, and a range of personal health issues, including depression, borderline personality disorder and autism, contributed to anxiety over the personal attacks.

The married mother of one reportedly took her own life in the US after posts motivated by “jealousy and envy”, according to her husband via a message on Instagram.

“They spread false rumours, and being the sensitive person she was, it deeply affected her,” Ethan Raines said.

“She tried for years to push through the pain, but this time it was too much.

“As many of you know she was on the autism spectrum and while that made her life very difficult it allowed her to hyper-focus on one thing — and that one thing was obviously animals,” he added.

The Save A Fox campaigner rose to garner worldwide recognition after establishing the biggest fox rescue and rehabilitation charity in the US with bases in Florida and Minnesota.

As a teenager Mrs Raines became obsessed with helping to provide the American fox population and other exotic animals a safe haven when necessary.

“From a young age she dedicated every waking hour of her life to helping them, whether it was helping a snapping turtle cross the road or saving 500 foxes from a terrible fur farm.” Mr Raines explained.

“She was never in it for fame, money or personal gain.

“She would forgo sleep, eating and showering if there was an animal that needed her help.

“Mikayla was truly the most amazing and inspiring individual I have ever known, and not having her here makes everything feel empty. I feel broken.”

Mrs Raines leaves behind her husband and young daughter, Freya, with the family stating they will continue to manage the rescue operation as a legacy to her tireless efforts.

“I gave Mikayla all of my love and energy, and I will do the same with this rescue going forward,” Mr Raines said.

“This is what Mikayla would want, and I have to see her dreams and goals be realised.”

Other wildlife rescue operations were shocked at the news and threw their support behind her husband awhile paying tribute to Mikayla.

“This is so tragic. So many in our community have foxes that only came to us because of Mikayla’s dedication to her mission and empathy toward animals,’ said the Juniper Widllife Refuge.

‘We will all carry a small piece of her light that lives on through them. There are really no words to describe how sorry I am for your loss and the pain that you and all of her loved ones are suffering. I hope her memory continues to bring all of you strength.”

Other commenters were angry after turning their attention to the online harassment blamed for Mrs Raines’ death.

“To the vile, spineless individuals who tormented her … I hope you never forget this post. I hope the weight of this loss sits heavy on your conscience every single day,” wrote Miranda Sanders.

“Your cruelty, born from nothing but jealousy and insecurity, took away a bright beautiful life doing god’s work and left a wound that will never fully heal for many humans and animals.”

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

If you or someone you know needs help, phone SANE Australia Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).