Stray dog or fox?

Question

A neighbor on a local community message board is trying to locate the owner of this stray "dog" pictured below (Raleigh North Carolina area). She was reportedly a little timid at first but became super playful in a few seconds. The kids love her but their dog seemed to really dislike her, but later also became friends.

I say this is a wild red fox.

Neighbors are arguing that this is not a fox but some type of terrier or some other arcane breed I cannot recall.

Is there any plausible breed this could be, i.e. not a fox? Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Assuming this isn't a joke, that is a fox. If you want to make absolutely sure, and assuming you can check safely, check the eyes. Foxes have slit pupils when they're contracted, like a cat's. Dogs always have rounded pupils.

Since this is a wild animal, however, do not handle it, and those who have interacted with it should possibly seek medical treatment as foxes can carry serious diseases such as rabies.