JIMOTHY NEWS
In October of 2026, the Dallas-based North Texas Wildlife Center agency published a social media post regarding a concerning Costco product – a “Jimothy-style” raccoon dog toy.
Who‘s This Jimothy Fella Again?
If you’ve been living under a rock (or perhaps a suburban trash can) “Jimothy” is the portmanteau name given to the now world famous raccoon from Seattle, Washington; who earlier this year took the took the internet by storm with his peculiar, round shape, suspected by animal experts to be short spine syndrome; a rare genetic disorder which causes the spine to not grow properly when they are in the womb.
As is the case with any viral sensation, once the free market got its grubby little mitts on him, Jimothy’s likeness became a money-making staple across animal lover platforms, and disability awareness communities.
And, of course, pet supply manufacturers, such as ThinkDog by Delca, who promptly created a Jimothy-inspired racoon chew toy that eventually made its way onto the shelves of popular retailers like Costco.
Their Concern
You may be wondering to yourself: “Why do they care if there is a silly, raccoon shaped dog toy on store shelves?“
NTXWC’s Facebook post explains: “We understand that a toy’s design does not directly cause animal attacks, but products and marketing can influence how people perceive and interact with wildlife around them.”
In a public letter, the agency urged Costco and Think Dog leadership to “reconsider how wildlife is represented in pet products,” ending with, “We hope you will make a thoughtful choice that reflects respect for the animals with whom we share our communities.”
The post also included various photographs of animals that, according to the NTXWC, have been harmed by dogs and treated by agency staff – including a small raccoon.
Established in 2013, NTXWC is a nonprofit that works with injured and orphaned wildlife throughout north Texas.
