Roar Animal University - All Creatures Welcomed
2025 in Memoriam
Dr. Jane Goodall
1934-2025 Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, UN Messenger of Peace and world-renowned ethologist, conservationist, and humanitarian
Mikayla Raines
Mikayla Raines (1995- June 20,2025) American animal rescuer, wildlife rehabilitator, and You Tuber. Founder and Chief Executive of Minnesota’s SaveAFox Rescue, a nonprofit animal sanctuary organization specializing in rescuing animals from fur farms. She took her own life and it was reported a cause might have been online bullying
Julio
Julio, 1991-2025.The bright blue-and-gold macaw that greeted generations of Sacramento Zoo visitors as one of its most beloved attractions. The cause of death was cardiac arrest, which occurred while the exotic bird was under anesthesia for a veterinary procedure last week. He was a familiar, cherished figure known for his intelligence and connection with people, leaving a significant void at the zoo and among its community. He was 34 years old.
Iain Douglas-Hamilton
Iain Douglas-Hamilton (Born August 16, 1942; Died December 8, 2025), a prominent zoologist, was known for his pioneering research and conservation efforts concerning African elephants.
Brigitte Bardot
Brigitte Bardot (Born September 28, 1934; Died December 28, 2025), the iconic French actress, became a dedicated and influential animal rights activist later in life.
Tika the Iggy
Tika the Iggy social media star. The Italian Greyhound known for her fashion sense passed away on November 4, 2025, at her home in Montreal, shortly after having surgery.She was a global internet sensation, famous for her outfits, and was mourned by fans worldwide as a true fashion icon for dogs.
Tika the Iggy
Tika the Iggy social media star. The Italian Greyhound known for her fashion sense passed away on November 4, 2025, at her home in Montreal, shortly after having surgery.She was a global internet sensation, famous for her outfits, and was mourned by fans worldwide as a true fashion icon for dogs.
Robert Redford
Robert Redford (Born August 18, 1936; Died September 16, 2025), the acclaimed actor and director, was also a lifelong advocate for environmental and animal welfare causes, particularly concerning wild horses.
Norbert
Norbert was a famous, 3-pound mixed-breed therapy dog known for his social media presence, children’s books, and work bringing comfort to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. He passed away in January 2025 at age 15, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and a project called “Norberthood” that encourages spreading smiles.
Fernando
Fernando, a 9-year-old two-toed sloth, died suddenly at the Phoenix Zoo on November 4, 2025. Fernando had been having trouble breathing and was receiving oxygen therapy when he passed away. He was diagnosed with mineralization of his aorta and aortic arterial branches in 2024. Fernando was transferred to Phoenix from the National Aquarium in Baltimore in 2017.
Ventana
Ventana, a 4-year-old sled dog, tragically collapsed and died during the 2025 Iditarod Trail Race while running in the 1,100+ mile sled race; a necropsy later revealed she was pregnant, and the musher withdrew from the race as required by rules. Ventana was in a “later stage of pregnancy.” Ventana’s pregnancy evidently went undetected throughout the Qualifying Review Board, Musher pre-screening, and the veterinary trail exam. PETA considers the race to be hazardous to the participating dogs, pointing out over 150 dogs have died over the years of the race.
Remembering
Let us know that if in 2025 or 2026 there is any Animal or Human that we should have noted here In Memoriam for their positive contributions to Animal health and welfare and/or human-animal cooperative advancement.
And, if you personally desire to remember one of your own…pets or favorite animals that have passed on please view our Remembrance page and allow everyone to share in the memories you cherish.
