In the quiet village of Dibden within the New Forest, an unusual advertisement on the secondhand website Preloved caught the eye of a local resident in 2004. Originally searching for guinea pigs, she stumbled upon a listing for a raccoon, sparking a journey that would lead to the unforgettable pet, Mishka. This surly yet deeply beloved raccoon left an indelible mark on her owners, despite her mischievous antics and health challenges.
An Unexpected Beginning
The story of Mishka began when her future owner, having lived in Florida during the 1990s and nurtured a raccoon with a bad leg there, felt a strong connection to these curious creatures. After extensive research on Google, she met a breeder and eventually welcomed three raccoons into her home. Nigel and Casey were purchased, while Mishka was later given to the family as a gift. At just eight weeks old, Mishka arrived, setting the stage for years of unique companionship.
Daily Life and Dietary Needs
Raising raccoons requires specific care, starting with kitten milk from pet shops, as cow's milk can cause severe diarrhoea. Mishka was bottle-fed initially, then weaned onto porridge. Her diet evolved to include dog kibble, chicken sticks, berries, pumpkin, and cheese, though she notably refused any meat. Tragically, she was eventually diagnosed with diabetes, necessitating daily insulin injections from her husband, Graham. While she eventually tolerated these injections, she initially responded with bites, showcasing her feisty personality.
A Personality Full of Contrasts
Mishka's temperament was a blend of affection and aggression. She resided in an enclosure in the utility room but often roamed freely in the lounge, prompting the family to confine their chorkie dogs, Kennedy and Elf, to the bedroom during her outings. If crossed, she would bite and growl, yet she was predominantly loving, allowing hugs, kisses, and grooming sessions. Her aversion to water was profound; she refused baths unless they were dry, leading to cleaning with wipes, though she never developed an unpleasant odour.
Mischievous Escapades and Household Havoc
Mishka's playful nature often turned destructive. She terrorised the other two raccoons by hitting them on the head and once climbed her cage to leap into a Christmas tree, creating a hilarious scene. In collaboration with the family dog, she stripped wallpaper from the walls, earning her a reputation as a naughty but gorgeous raccoon. Her antics brought laughter and chaos in equal measure.
Legal Changes and a Heartbreaking Farewell
During Mishka's lifetime, UK laws shifted regarding raccoon ownership. Initially legal, new invasive species regulations prohibited buying, selling, or giving away raccoons, though existing pets like Mishka were allowed to remain until their death. In her final weeks, Mishka fell ill, with vets unable to pinpoint the cause, though her owner suspects a brain tumour. She passed away in May at the age of seven, leaving a void in the hearts of her family.
A Legacy of Love and Laughter
Mishka was described as her owner's pride and joy, bringing immense fun and joy despite initial skepticism from family and friends. Everyone who met her was ultimately won over by her unique charm. This story serves as a poignant reminder of the deep bonds that can form with unconventional pets, celebrating Mishka's life as a testament to resilience, love, and the unexpected joys of animal companionship.
