Latest from Horse & Hound in Donkeys

The summer’s must-have legwear: donkeys cut a dash in fabulous pyjamas and flares

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:45:00 +0000

Sometimes you just want to stay in your pyjamas all day – and if you’re a donkey, this has an extra benefit.

Residents of The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon have been spotted sporting the season’s must-have wide-leg look, thanks to students at the University of St Andrews in Scotland.

The alma mater of the Prince and Princess of Wales has donated suitable legwear from a recycling initiative, which is now being used to protect the donkeys from biting insects.

“Like many equine owners, the sanctuary experiences the annual challenge of biting flies during the warmer months,” a Donkey Sanctuary spokesperson said.

“For several years, staff have been using trousers, leggings or pyjama bottoms to help protect the donkeys’ legs from bites. The loose-fitting legwear is cut to fit individual donkeys, which by their nature, can get through several pairs a week as they roam around their pastures.”

The charity launched an appeal for suitable used trousers to boost its supplies; groom Lisa Coles said the older donkeys seem to suffer most from the insects, which is “heartbreaking to see”.

The spokesperson said: “The charity recently received an unexpected boost from an inspiring recycling initiative at the University of St Andrews. After hearing how unwanted trousers and leggings can help protect the resident herds, staff and students gathered up a collection of suitable items left over from their recycling project.

(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

“The university has its own Reuse shop where students can donate their old clothing when they leave for the summer break or graduate for other students. Some of the clothing gets donated for reuse or upcycling to Fife charities, local creators and schools, and the remaining unwanted pieces are normally thrown away. Fortunately, these have now found a new lease of life over 500 miles south in Devon.” 

Anya Hart Dyke of the university said the team was  “tickled pink” by the thought of donkeys wearing pyjamas for protection.

“We hate seeing any clothes go to waste so we were delighted to source items that were too faded, or worse for wear, to be reworn by students,” she said. ”We’re always looking for new opportunities to keep clothes in play so were thrilled when The Donkey Sanctuary agreed to make use of clothes that would have otherwise been incinerated.”

Lisa said the charity was delighted by the donation.

“Even though the legwear may look a bit unusual at first glance, it really does make a difference to the welfare of our donkeys, and we hope others may be inspired to donate any suitable items we can use,” she said.

Unwanted loose-fitting trousers, leggings, pyjamas or maternity trousers, from women’s size 16 and men’s size L upwards, can be taken to the Sidmouth sanctuary’s onsite gift shop.

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You scratch my back… how council road sweepers are helping itchy equines

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:11:17 +0000

Everyone knows how frustrating it is when you get an itch you just can’t reach – donkeys as much as anyone else.

But the equine residents of The Donkey Sanctuary’s donkey assisted activities (DAA) centre can now scratch away to their hearts’ content as used (but cleaned) road sweeper brushes are being sent to the rescue, in an “inspired” form of recycling.

“East Devon District Council’s StreetScene department has donated a number of their used street sweeper brushes to the Sidmouth sanctuary, where they have been welcomed by the resident herd at the DAA centre,” a spokesperson for the charity said.

“After a month or so of keeping the streets of east Devon litter-free, the plastic bristled brushes attached to the StreetScene road sweepers are normally disposed of in the general waste. But, after being deep cleaned, they now have a new lease of life at the sanctuary.”

The brushes allow the donkeys to reach their inaccessible itches, and as well as the regular grooming provided, allow them to help shed their thick coats. They have been mounted at different heights so all the herd can benefit.

Councillor Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council’s portfolio holder for environment – operations, said: “This is a great example of reuse and recycling, supporting a local charity. It’s wonderful to see how the donkeys are benefiting from these old sweeper brushes, which would otherwise have gone to waste.”

The DAA donkeys support people in dealing with challenges and stress, and help “promote positive attitudes towards donkeys”.

DAA equine assistant Sid Miller said: “We are incredibly grateful to StreetScene for donating the brushes for our donkeys.

“It is not only lovely to see them already benefiting from this kind gesture, it is great to know we are recycling items that would have otherwise been destined for the waste – a double win!”

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Who are you calling a donkey? Equines practise their football skills before England World Cup opener

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:51:29 +0000

Anyone who might have been tempted to call any player a donkey – surely not – in tonight’s (17 June) England World Cup opener against Croatia might want to think again.

National coach Thomas Tuchel has had some stick for his selection for the squad that travelled to the US, and perhaps having seen this footage, he might be wishing he’d picked differently.

At The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, residents have been enjoying some football-themed enrichment to mark the occasion, showing off, as a charity spokesperson put it, their “agility, balance and fancy hoofwork”.

“Donkeys are naturally alert, sure-footed and great communicators, they thrive as part of a team and stay calm under pressure – all qualities any footballer would be proud of,” the spokesperson said.

The pitch the donkeys were practising on may have been a bit more Messi than the World Cup squads are used to but the play was just as skilful, including some passing and tackling both England and Croatia would be proud of. There may, however, be less balancing a ball on an opponent’s withers, and braying, in Dallas from 9pm UK time.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“While it’s anyone’s guess which teams they’ll be cheering on, one thing is clear: if ‘donkey’ is shouted from the terraces this tournament, it might just be the ultimate compliment,” the Donkey Sanctuary spokesperson said.

“These playful activities form part of the sanctuary’s wider enrichment programme, providing opportunities for donkeys to interact with their environment, make choices and to be more mentally and physically active.”

Louise Blair from the sanctuary’s donkey assisted activities (DAA) centre, told H&H enrichment activities are very important.

“Physical stimulation and the opportunity to play and interact with objects, such as playing with wellies or footballs, also plays an important part in their wellbeing,” she said.

“Here in DAA, we put balls on the yard or field as part of a three-week rolling rota so they do not become bored with the same object. They play with them on their own but also, as seen this week with the footballs, they like to get another donkey involved!”

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Calls for Amazon to ban sales of product for which millions of donkeys die every year

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 28 May 2026 16:05:22 +0000

Amazon UK has been urged to ban the sale of eijao products as more than six million donkeys are slaughtered every year to produce them.

The retailer does not directly sell products containing eijao, made from donkey hides and used in cosmetics and food, but welfare charity Brooke has found that these products are available on Amazon from third-party sellers.

The petition calls for Amazon to “consider the devastating effects the trade is having on animals and people globally” and ban the products immediately.

H&H has reported on the effects of the skin trade on donkey populations as millions are killed in “horrifying conditions” to supply demand.

“This trade, which most people don’t even realise exists, is causing immense suffering for both animals and people,” said Brooke chief executive Chris Wainwright.

“When a donkey is stolen and slaughtered, entire families lose their income and lifeline overnight. This has to change. Amazon must take action to ensure its platforms aren’t accelerating this cruelty. So that we can help end the trade and protect donkeys – relied on by so many worldwide.”

Sign the petition

It is thought that Africa could lose half its donkey population by 2040 if the trade continues.

“Donkeys are vital to millions of people, supporting livelihoods, education and access to essentials in some of the world’s poorest communities,” a Brooke spokesperson said.

“The skin trade is causing extreme suffering worldwide, including violent capture, long transportation without food or water and brutal slaughter conditions for these animals.”

Brooke has contacted Amazon UK but had no response. The charity’s donkey skin ambassador Scott Miller, the resident vet on ITV’s This Morning, is backing the petition.

“Amazon: I understand your ignorance of eijao”

“Speaking directly to anyone working at Amazon, I would say I understand your ignorance regarding ejiao,” Dr Miller said. “I didn’t know about it either until I started working with Brooke.

“But once you know about this product and the brutal trade that’s behind it, you will want to take action. You will want to protect some of the most vulnerable and poorest communities on this planet. By simply banning any product that contains ejiao from your platform.”

Dr Miller urged people to sign the petition and contact their MPs.

“I personally have seen first-hand how the production of ejiao devastates communities, particularly the poorest in Africa,” he said. “It has a huge impact not only on women, but the health and education of children. Anyone that has a heart, that cares about animals and that cares about people would want to support the ban of ejiao worldwide.”

H&H has contacted Amazon UK for comment.

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Research finds UK is ‘failing donkeys’ as families urged to consider welfare before they take beach rides

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 25 May 2026 14:03:05 +0000

The UK is “failing its working donkeys, research has found, as anyone visiting attractions offering rides is urged to consider equine welfare before they pay for services.

Research carried out by The Donkey Sanctuary due to be published on 30 May in Veterinary Record, highlights a shift in the role of donkeys’ roles, which can mean new welfare issues.

“While traditionally associated with seaside rides, donkeys are increasingly used in a wide range of commercial settings – from supporting human wellbeing, appearing in films and other media, and as attractions in farm parks or petting zoos,” a Donkey Sanctuary spokesperson said. “These evolving labour roles bring new and often overlooked welfare challenges, raising concerns about how effectively current regulatory systems safeguard the donkeys.”

The study considered welfare of donkeys who had been resigned into the charity’s care from licensed commercial operators and those whose premises had been attended by donkey welfare advisers. These included donkeys given up voluntarily or after intervention, sometimes with RSPCA support.

“Of the 179* donkeys assessed, almost all were suffering from poor health, including back pain, lameness and welfare issues relating to low weight as well as inadequate dental or hoof care,” the spokesperson said. “Notably, almost three-quarters of these animals had been working as beach donkeys.”

Animal-related activities are subject to licensing by local authorities, which means councils must have licensing officers with knowledge of equine welfare, or involve vets for welfare assessment and decision making.

Not necessarily negligence

Donkey Sanctuary senior researcher Tamlin Watson, lead author of the study, said issues are not necessarily a result of negligence.

“Licensing authorities are expected to oversee an incredibly diverse range of premises from gambling venues to theme parks and zoos, often without the specialist knowledge or resources required to properly assess animal welfare in a diverse number of species,” she said.

“We were recently involved in a continuing professional development (CPD) online event for farm parks at which 79 per cent of attendees were local authority officers. The success of that event suggests there is an appetite for specialist training and a genuine desire to ensure the welfare of animals under licence. Further events are planned for 2027.”

She added that there is a lack of consistent veterinary involvement in licensing, which must improve, but that the research “suggests that vets too sometimes need a better understanding of donkey welfare needs”.

“The study concludes that licensing alone does not guarantee positive welfare outcomes for donkeys, even in cases where veterinary oversight is a formal requirement,” the spokesperson said. “It also points to the need for a more informed and coordinated approach to safeguarding their welfare in an evolving commercial landscape.

“As the holiday season approaches, The Donkey Sanctuary is urging people visiting farm parks or seaside resorts where donkey rides are offered to consider the welfare of the animals involved before paying for services.”

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‘I’ve never seen flooding like it’: rescue of herd trapped by rising water is a cautionary tale for owners

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:57:08 +0000

The rescue of a group of donkeys found in a “desperate situation” surrounded by rising floodwater is a cautionary tale for others, their rescuers believe.

The plight of April, Mimi, Martha, Mabel, Aida, Pippin and Lily-Mae came to the attention of the Donkey Sanctuary at the end of January, when Storm Chandra caused a river near their home to burst its banks, and water was pouring into their field.

The donkeys’ owner contacted Somerset County Council for help, and the equine welfare charity responded. Welfare advisor Sarah Kenward found the group “huddled on a small clearing that hadn’t yet become submerged”.

“In my 14 years working within the animal welfare sector, I hadn’t seen flooding like it,” Ms Kenward said. ”I would estimate that the site was 95 percent under water; it was heartbreaking to witness the animals surrounded by water, with no means of escaping.

“The constant rain had caused the donkeys’ stable area to flood; their bedding was floating on top of the water, and the only hard standing the donkeys could access was near one trailer; the storm had brought a tree down on another trailer.”

Ms Kenward and the charity’s vet Jamie Forrest worked together to remove the donkeys from the smallholding. April, one of the older jennys, was in poor condition and it was agreed that putting her down was the best option for her.

The donkeys in the sanctuary’s new arrivals unit. (Image credit: Alex Walton)

“With more wet weather forecast and a fuller understanding of the longer-term needs of the donkeys, it was agreed for the group to come into the care of the Donkey Sanctuary,” the charity spokesperson said, adding that once deemed fit to travel by the vet, they were transported to the sanctuary’s new arrivals unit in Devon.

“Since arriving at the sanctuary, the donkeys have gone from strength to strength. They’ve had their hooves trimmed and have been wormed. In the coming weeks they will have dental treatment and vaccinations.

“The donkeys have also been introduced to straw feed and have a comprehensive balancer to ensure they have the vitamins and minerals they need to improve their condition.”

The charity pointed out that donkeys evolved in dry climates and are not well adapted to wet British winters; as these may be becoming more common, there are “additional challenges for owners to consider”.

“Understanding the risks and developing a contingency plan based on your own circumstances will help in times when urgent action is needed,” Ms Kenward said. “Our donkey advice centre and regionally based donkey welfare advisers are able to provide friendly, practical advice and guidance to owners throughout Britain.”

She added: “The whole situation was incredibly sad but thanks to our amazing teams, it was so rewarding to bring the donkeys to the sanctuary, to safety, and help them on their journey to find new forever homes.”

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Little donkeys find forever home together in time for Christmas

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 14:46:56 +0000

Two little donkeys born weeks apart at an equine rescue centre can look forward to Christmas in their new home together.

Peanut and Popcorn were born last year at World Horse Welfare’s Belwade Farm rescue and rehoming centre, in Aberdeenshire, which had taken in their heavily pregnant rescued mothers Mia and Molly.

“Donkeys bond very strongly so Peanut and Popcorn, who were born 10 weeks apart, were looking for a home together once they were old enough,” a World Horse Welfare spokesperson said. “Rehoming a pair can often be tricky, as not everyone has space to take two animals at once – but luck was on Peanut and Popcorn’s side and they found the perfect home at the end of September.”

Carol, who has welcomed the two young donkeys, said someone she knew sent her the links to their profiles on the World Horse Welfare website.

“As soon as I read their profiles, I thought this would be the ideal home for them,” she said.

“I did take time to consider it carefully before applying though, as I already had two donkeys and needed to be sure it was right for them too.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“After I applied, I was invited to the farm to meet Peanut and Popcorn and could tell it would be a great match with my two older donkeys, Duffy and Henrietta. Peanut and Popcorn have fitted right in and they’re such characters – they’re very funny. They’ve really livened Duffy and Henrietta up and it’s lovely to see them all zooming round the field together.

“All my animals have a home for life, so hopefully this is just the first of many happy Christmases with their new friends. I can’t imagine them not being here now.”

Carol added that she has always been keen on rehoming, to give animals the second chance they deserve.

“Giving Peanut and Popcorn a home has made space for two more horses or donkeys in need to be rescued,” she said. “It’s been a brilliant experience for me – the Belwade Farm team were all really friendly and helpful, as well as very efficient. I’d recommend rehoming to anyone.”

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Meet Milton the 16hh spotted mule who’s ridden tackless, plays football and lives with mammoth donkeys

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 15:29:23 +0000

Meet Milton the 16hh spotty mule, who’s ridden tackless, used to have “the slowest bolt in the world” and is enjoying life with a few giant donkeys.

Karen Inkster, who runs livery and training yard Equine Unlimited in Dunkeld, Scotland, told H&H she is trying to put mules “back on the map”, and helping to preserve mammoth donkeys, an endangered species. She has a 20-month-old jack, a jenny and a four-month-old foal, and hopes to breed more donkeys, and mules big enough to ride.

“Mules are the most wonderful, multi-talented equine you can imagine,” she said. “They are more sure-footed than horses, don’t need as much food, live longer, tend to have less ailments to name just a few great things about them – and their ears. Come on, who doesn’t love a massive ear?!”

Karen, whose yard promotes positive reinforcement training, got her first donkey by accident, a few years ago.

“Somebody said ‘You don’t want a 30-year-old donkey who’s laminitic, do you, because if I can’t find a home for her I’m going to have to put her to sleep’. I went and got her and fell in love.”

At that jenny’s age, she did not live a great deal longer, but Karen was already smitten with donkeys.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“They’re just so different from horses,” she said. “When she passed on, I thought I couldn’t not have donkeys in my life, so I got another couple of rescue donkeys.”

Karen also loves “saddle tramping”, taking horses and kit and spending days or weeks at a time in the hills. She had heard that mules were the “go-to 4×4 horses”, but having put in a great deal of research, found out that it is hard to find mules big enough to ride in this country.

“There are often little ones when it’s been an accident; somebody’s put a pony in with a donkey and you get a 12hh mule,” she said. “There used to be the occasional one from Europe, but because we’re out of the EU, shipping them across now is really expensive. So I started looking at potentially breeding my own – and to do that, obviously, to get a ridden size mule, you need a big donkey.”

Karen researched mammoth donkeys and found that these are the ones from which larger mules are often bred, but that they are endangered. Her vet told her that using frozen semen for AI was not likely to be successful, but then she heard of a pregnant mammoth donkey in England.

“So that kind of happened!” she said. “At my equestrian centre, we focus very much on positive reinforcement, a horse-centred approach; they all live out in herds. There’s only one mule UK [social media] page and I’d posted to say I’d love a mule, any idea of where people can get them, and this lady got in touch and said ‘I follow your page, I really like what you do, and I’ve got this big spotty mule called Milton, who I’ve been thinking about maybe selling’.”

Karen said the previous owner was not immediately sure she did want to sell, but eventually, she invited Karen to meet him.

“I went down and, bless him, he came and just put his head right in my chest, and it was love at first sight, for me anyway,” she said. “And that was it. So now I have one massive spotty mule, I have a massive mammoth donkey jack and a donkey jenny. So those two can now have mammoth donkey offspring, and with the mammoth jack I can breed my own ridden-sized mules with a couple of my own mares. We’re going to put mammoth donkeys and hopefully ridden-sized mules back on the map, in the UK at least.”

Milton arrived last spring, and Karen said he is a “typical mule”.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“In that he’s got no steering and no brakes, and you’ve not got a hope in hell unless he’s on board with you,” she said. “I’m not sure how much riding he’s had; he’s been driven a lot, so I’ve had to strip him right back. I ride him with no tack – because I have no control anyway! – So I just ride him bareback with no bridle in the arena, trying to get him to go off my voice and seat cues with the clicker training. He’s got the slowest bolt in the world, because he just goes for home at a walk; it’s like Thelwell, sitting there with absolutely no control whatsoever.”

Karen said donkeys and mules have a reputation for being stubborn, but that this is because although horses’ instinctive reaction to fear is flight, theirs is to freeze.

“When horses get a fright, they spook, turn, run away,” she said. “Donkeys are freeze animals, so they tend to stop and evaluate it. And in that time, if you try to get them to do something, they’re saying ‘Well, this thing could kill me, so no, I’m just going to stand here and stare it out and decide’. That’s actually the ‘stubbornness’. You have to work with them; there’s no way you can convince them to do anything unless it’s through trust and respect.”

Karen is currently injured and not in the saddle, but she said the tackless riding and clicker training had been working with Milton.

“Mules are really clever, much more than horses,” she said. “I do target training and one day with Milton, I’d forgotten the target but there was a football in the arena, and in one session, he learned how to play with it. That would have taken three or four sessions with a horse but he learned it in 15-20 minutes. They test your training but you have to work with them.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Karen added that the “freezing” behaviour means mules are much less likely to spook or spin, which might appeal to some riders, and that they are hardier and less likely to need rugging than horses.

“Milton is one of the biggest in the herd but he’s not interested in any fighting or aggro whatsoever,” she said. “He’s just a big gentle giant, and a lovely, very affectionate lad. Now he’s getting to know me, after we do a session, I’ll put him in the field then climb on the gate and sit there. He just stands with his head over the gate or on my lap, and we just watch the world go by together. He just gives off this lovely, chilled, happy mule feeling.”

Karen said she hopes Ollie, her two-year-old mammoth jack, and four-month-old mammoth foal Cheyenne, who should make 14.2hh plus, will also be ridden, and Ollie will have a breeding career.

“One of my mares who I will hopefully put to him is an appaloosa, so hopefully we’ll have a baby spotted mule in time as well,” she said. “Nobody comes to see any more, they all come to see Milton and the baby donkey, so it’s going to be even worse!”

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‘Out of sadness a wonderful friendship has blossomed’: abandoned donkey finds new friend in loving home

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 11:11:56 +0000

A donkey who was abandoned while pregnant and who lost her friend has found a loving new home – and a new soul mate.

Young jenny Mia was taken in, heavily in foal, by World Horse Welfare’s Belwade Farm after she was abandoned last summer. She is now living with rehomer Alicia, whose donkey Duffy had lost her friend at about the same time Mia lost her companion Molly.

“Out of sadness, a wonderful friendship has blossomed,” a World Horse Welfare spokesperson said. “Mia and Duffy bonded very quickly and are now thriving together.”

World Horse Welfare groom Jodie worked with Mia before and after the birth of her foal Peanut.

“When Mia first arrived, she was very cautious of people – it took a long time to gain her trust,” said Jodie. “To catch Mia and her friend Molly, who was abandoned with her, for the vet the first time we had to use special treats and all our powers of persuasion! Mia was also very protective of her tummy and hind end and before she had Peanut, she would kick out at anyone who went near either area.

Mia with her foal Peanut. Picture by World Horse Welfare (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“With a lot of time, patience, and careful training, Mia’s relationship with people has completely transformed. Seeing her go from being so apprehensive to enjoying a cuddle and being ready to rehome has been amazing. It’s been a very rewarding journey with Mia and I’m so happy that she’s found a loving home.”

Alicia, who had already rehomed a horse from the charity, took Mia in last month.

“Mia is adorable,” she said. “She and Duffy spent five minutes zooming around together when they were first introduced, then they had a bit of a chat together, and that was it: best friends immediately.

“They’d both sadly lost their friend at a similar time – I hadn’t the heart to rush straight into finding a new donkey and I knew Duffy needed time to mourn. When I felt the time was right, Mia came up for rehoming just a couple of days later.

“Having already rehomed from World Horse Welfare once, I was pleased to do my bit by rehoming again to make space for another animal in need to be rescued. I also knew that Mia would have been fully checked over and that any considerations would be disclosed. Jodie explained that I’d probably need food to catch Mia, but after a couple of weeks in her new home she’s very happy to be caught without it. The team at Belwade Farm has done a great job with her and she’s lovely to handle. She’s a very sweet, gentle little donkey and she loves a fuss. I’m so pleased she and Duffy have bonded so well.”

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‘They make each day better’: donkeys who spent years serving community help heal a broken heart

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 16:32:18 +0000

Three donkeys who have spent years supporting people have retired to their last home – where they have helped heal a broken heart.

Monte, Muldoon and Junior were part of The Donkey Sanctuary’s donkey-assisted activities programme, and are now “living the dream” with rehomer Sam Cannon in Dorset.

A spokesperson for the sanctuary said Sam had heard about the charity’s rehoming scheme, but had two horses so was not looking to take on a donkey.

“Dylan, a piebald carthorse, had lived with her since he was a yearling, and ex-racehorse Solly was given to her by their vet as he knew she would give him a loving home for the rest of his life,” a Donkey Sanctuary spokesperson said. “After 24 years together, Sam sadly lost Solly, then Dylan a few years later.”

Sam said it was heartbreaking to lose both horses, adding: “They’d been in our lives for so long, it was like losing part of our family.”

Sam eventually discussed getting another horse with her family, then remembered The Donkey Sanctuary’s rehoming scheme. The charity sent welfare advisor Sophie Foster to check Sam’s facilities, and explain the differences between caring for horses and donkeys.

Sam then spent a day with the charity for some “hands-on training”.

“When the day came, Monte, Muldoon and Junior walked down the ramp of the equine transporter into their new home,” the spokesperson said. “After having horses in her life for so long, it was an emotional day for Sam, but also a day filled with excitement as she knew she was about to begin a new chapter in her life.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“It didn’t take long for the donkeys to settle, and they were soon enjoying the routine in their new home. Their stables had a thick bed of straw, and outside there was lots of space to explore.

“Since arriving in their new home, their characters have really shone through. Muldoon may be the smallest of the three, but has the biggest personality. He makes sure he is first for a friendly scratch, and enjoys a cuddle from Sam.”

Sam has found Monte to be the quietest of the three.

“He ‘eeyores’ softly wherever he sees us,” she said. “His gentle brays make my heart skip each time.

“Junior is a gentle, kind soul. If you are feeling low, he’ll come and stand with you; he’s very receptive to your emotions. He loves to roll, loves to play, and is always watching what else is going on. He has a huge bray, but doesn’t do it much. This is a good thing as it’s very loud if you’re next to him!”

The spokesperson said the donkeys, who are aged 14 (Muldoon) and 16, have plenty of enrichment, and visitors, and if there are enough people to help, all three go for walks through the village.

“They make each day better,” said Sam. “When I get up in the morning, I look out of the window and can’t wait to go and see them, and it’s always a wrench to leave them at night and come in.

“They love and enchant everyone they meet, and have helped to heal my broken heart in a way I never expected.”

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‘By the way, clean your teeth!’ Dental practice welcomes rare twin donkey foals

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 18:01:42 +0000

When Mark and Tina Boulcott agreed to take in some rescued donkeys to add to their menagerie, they thought they were getting four of them.

But it soon appeared that two were pregnant – and one popped out twin foals, within half an hour.

Twins are very rare in donkeys than in horses, and there is a low rate of survival. But Cocoa’s colt and filly, Eddie and Edith, are doing very well at a fortnight old, dentist Dr Boulcott told H&H this week. Both are about the same size as Mocha’s filly Elenor, who was born two days later as a single foal.

“I’m quite a good midwife of horses now!” he said. “We’d been watching the donkeys on cameras for ages, and she looked like a pig on stilts; she was so huge, we thought it must be any time. Then that night, we checked the cameras, and there were two things next to her; it had only been half an hour.

“We rushed out, and saw the two foals, and thought maybe they’d both given birth at the same time.”

But Mocha was still pregnant, and there was only one placenta.

“So obviously it was just one birth, but two donkeys,” Dr Boulcott said.

“We thought ‘Fair enough, we’ve got twins’. Then the vet came the next day, and said ‘Oh my god, you’ve got twin donkeys; I’ve never heard of such a thing’, we didn’t realise the significance of it. He contacted the local paper and it’s gone ballistic.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The twins’ story has been shared across the internet and social media, and Dr Boulcott said he was surprised by the huge interest.

“But they are cute,” he said. “Technically they’re triplets now, because the other donkey, two days later, gave birth to her single foal. They were best friends, the two mothers; we had to separate them during the birth but now they’re out in the fields in the daytime and all three of them foals are skipping around together, then they come back in and go to their respective stables at night.”

Dr Boulcott explained that his dental practice funds the couple’s menagerie of rescued animals at their 100-acre Bunkers Hill Farm in Pembrokeshire, where Mrs Boulcott also produces Clydesdales with their Oakenfold prefix.

As well as the donkeys, there are 19 horses, six dogs, seven pigs and three cows, not to mention the peacock, and the eight emus – “although the males are sitting on their eggs at the moment so ask me that again in a few days’ time” – Dr Boulcott said.

And what better way could there be to persuade people to visit the dentist, if said dentist has all these animals?

“We write newsletters to our patients; about what you need to do to get clean teeth, and nobody bothers opening it,” Dr Boulcott said. “But when you put a picture of a snowman with a set of dentures, or of the two small sausage dogs that live in the practice, people see it.

“So we talk about the animals, then they engage, and we can add ‘And by the way, clean your teeth’. They’ll open up and engage with the animals, and you have to sneak in the teeth thing. And that’s fine, to be honest. I’d rather write about animals in any case, as teeth are rather boring!”

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‘Braying for more’: resourceful police use mints to capture donkey loose on the road

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 13:43:45 +0000

Resourceful police officers came to the rescue of a donkey and drivers by bribing the former with his favourite sweets.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said the donkey, whom officers from the Bloxwich station nicknamed Ned, was causing issues for motorists in the Beechdale estate in Walsall, after he escaped from his field on the evening of 27 February.

“Officers managed to bring the donkey, who they have affectionately named Ned, under control after bribing him with mints,” the spokesperson said. “They then trotted him back to his field and helped to mend a fence to stop him escaping again.”

Sergeant Chris Beards, response supervisor at Bloxwich, said the donkey was a “cheeky one”, who had escaped from his field in the past.

“He was causing a nuisance on the roads for motorists so my officers had to find him and take him back to his field,” he said. “He loves mints and once he had chomped down on one he was braying for more and was happy to come back with us.

“We took him back to his field and although we couldn’t locate his owner, we made sure the fence was secure so he couldn’t get out again.”

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‘Well intentioned but incompetent care’ means equines left to suffer

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 17:46:27 +0000

The owner of two donkeys who were left to suffer owing to “well intentioned but incompetent care” has been banned from keeping donkeys for five years.

David Donaghey, of Ascot Gardens, Gateshead, was sentenced at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on 27 February. The 40-year-old had pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences, at a previous hearing.

The court heard the two female donkeys, who were mother and daughter, were underweight, with “severely” overgrown hooves and sharp teeth; the older one, Molly, had an ulcerated mouth as neither she nor her daughter had had dental care for “a number of years”.

The court heard that RSPCA inspector Ian Smith had gone to a field in the Haggs Bank, Wylam, area on 27 March last year after reports had been made about the welfare of two skewbald donkeys.

In his written statement to the court, Mr Smith said: “Both animals had overgrown feet and were sitting back on their heels due to the length of their hooves. They were not terribly keen to move. I checked the field and could not see any shelter but I did find water for them.

“There were two bales of hay in the field but the donkeys were reluctant to go near the bales as they were witnessed to be bullied by the larger equines.

“Millie was in average condition with her bones easily palpable and a body score of two out of five. Molly was in a poor state with a body score of one and a half out of five with her bones easily palpable.”

A welfare advisor from The Donkey Sanctuary was also on the scene. Photos and videos were sent to an equine vet, who confirmed the donkeys were suffering owing to the condition of their hooves, an RSPCA spokesperson said. They were taken into police possession and to a private boarding yard.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“The equine veterinary surgeon who examined the donkeys and gave evidence in the case said they were both underweight because of an inadequate diet and it would have taken ‘a number of weeks’ for them to get into that condition,” the spokesperson said. “Teenage donkey Molly also had chronic laminitis and was lame on all four feet.”

In her written evidence to the court the vet said of Molly: “The hooves were severely overgrown and curled up at the toe, forcing the donkey to walk on a pivot as there was no correct weight-bearing surface.

“She had not received adequate hoof care for a minimum period of nine months, but likely longer, and this has caused her to suffer for a minimum period of six weeks but likely much longer. Hooves should be trimmed every four to eight weeks minimum by a farrier. This had not been provided by the owner.

“Her teeth were severely sharp and had not received any dental care in many years. This had caused marked ulceration to both sides of the inner cheeks and caused pain and suffering for many months. Equines should receive dental examination and treatment where required every 12 months minimum. Some require dental care every six months. This has not been provided by the owner.”

The vet said Millie, who was about four, had not had adequate hoof care for at least nine months, or appropriate dental care for “at least three years”. , the vet said.

The spokesperson said Donaghey was interviewed by Mr Smith.

“He said he was ‘devastated’ and ‘embarrassed’ about the situation and had never had anything happen with his animals before,” the spokesperson said. “He said he believed he had looked after the donkeys to the best of his ability and they had never shown any signs of lameness and were always the greediest and the first to food.”

The court heard a farrier had been due to see the donkeys but had “had to cancel a number of times” owing to the weather, and that references had been provided to say it was “nothing more than well intentioned but incompetent care”.

Donaghey was fined £448 and ordered to pay £1,224 costs and a £179 surcharge.

Millie is still in RSPCA care and has made a full recovery.

“Sadly Molly was suddenly and unexpectedly found dead at the boarding yard the following month,” the spokesperson said. “A post mortem said the cause of death was colic.”

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‘They’re inseparable’: two donkeys who had lost their companions find friendship together

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 20:51:58 +0000

Two donkeys who had each lost their best friend have become “inseparable”, having formed a new bond.

Staff at The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon hope Ivor and Abigail, who arrived separately at the charity, will now be suitable to be rehomed together. Donkeys develop strong relationships with others, often for life, and are not suited to living alone.

A spokesperson for the sanctuary said skewbald Ivor arrived with his companion Geronimo as their owner could no longer care for them. But Geronimo developed colic and had to be put down on vets’ advice.

“Abigail arrived at the sanctuary as a single donkey,” he added. “The eight-year-old grey mare had lost her close donkey companion in 2023, but as her guardian owners were unable to rehome another companion to join Abigail in their home, she was brought back to the sanctuary in East Devon in the hope a new friend could be found.”

As part of the charity’s biosecurity measures, new arrivals have to spend at least six weeks in a separate unit, and it was during this time that staff noticed Abigail showing interest in Ivor, who was stabled next door.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“She would put her nose up to the fence where the 14-year-old gelding was living, a sign she wanted companionship,” the spokesperson said.

New arrivals manager Sara Blair-Salter said staff could see Abigail and Ivor were starting to form a bond over the fence, so took the decision to introduce them properly.

“Abigail took the lead and was keen to meet Ivor, who seemed a bit more reserved,” she said.

“But it wasn’t long before they were standing next to each other sharing mutual grooming, a clear sign they were starting to form a friendship, which was great for the team to see.

“After just a couple of days, the two donkeys were inseparable and with just a small period of training, it is hoped they will be ready for rehoming.”

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‘Everyone loves her:’ meet John Whitaker’s donkey who hob-nobs with grand prix horses and teaches the youngsters to jump

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 19:03:57 +0000

John Whitaker’s base is, as you’d expect, home to top grand prix and championship horses, promising youngsters and very nice home-breds.

It’s also home to Hazel, a 17-year-old donkey who is best friends with John’s superstar Equine America Unick Du Francport, brays with joy as she jumps fences by herself, and teaches the babies what it’s all about.

John’s daughter Joanne told H&H Hazel was not the ideal candidate for her original job, when she arrived about 15 years ago.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Someone had told us if you keep a donkey with chickens, it keeps foxes away,” she said. “But every time there was even a little rustle in the bushes, she’d start hee-hawing and wake everyone up! So she became a companion for ones who need company or don’t settle in the fields; she’s the yard babysitter.”

Joanne recently shared a video of Hazel jumping tiny fences in the indoor school, shouting with joy as she did so – with some of the babies hot on her heels.

“If we put her loose on the school and there’s a little jump up, she always jumps it, she loves it,” Joanne said. “So she was loose in there, started jumping, and the foals started following her!”

A photo posted by on

Joanne said John did try backing Hazel when she was younger, “but she didn’t want to be backed; she’d just stand there,” so her role as yard babysitter was confirmed.

“My dad did mention at one point possibly putting her in foal to Argento and having a mule but it never actually happened,” she added.

“Her biggest companion is ‘Frank’; he won’t settle in the field without her, or even loose on the school. She’s always with him and when he walks past her door, she starts hee-hawing. If she thinks he’s going out without her, she just keeps honking. The kids love her and used to lead her about – but everyone loves her. She’s very, very cute.”

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‘A symbol of hope’: donkey carries woman through bombed streets and shelling to deliver her baby safely

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 20:51:33 +0000

A donkey who was helped by a welfare charity in Gaza carried a heavily pregnant woman to hospital through bombed streets and the sound of shelling to deliver her baby.

Thanks to Fatima, Alaa’s baby Nur Mohammed arrived safely, and mother and baby are doing well. The story was shared by Safe Haven for Donkeys, a British registered charity that cares for working and abandoned donkeys in Israel, the Palestinian territories, Egypt, and Gaza.

“With fuel scarce, and many trucks, vans and cars destroyed, donkeys have become the main mode of transport for moving people in Gaza – often taking those who are injured to hospital – alongside carrying food, water, and essential medicines through a war-ravaged landscape,” a spokesperson for the charity said.

“Led by Dr Saif, Safe Haven for Donkeys’ mobile team in Gaza is working tirelessly every day to provide relief to donkeys and horses that have horrific harness wounds, as well as injuries from missiles and bombs. Having treated approximately 1,000 donkeys and horses since the team started their work in April, this number is only growing.”

The spokesperson said that with no ambulances or cars available, Fatima, who had been treated by the charity, was Alaa’s only hope when her contractions started.

“In the heart of Gaza, the most crowded city in the world, amidst the sounds of distant explosions and the cries of despair, an immense and brutally treated community clung to hope,” Dr Saif said. “Among them was Alaa, a woman who was nine months pregnant, eagerly awaiting the arrival of her child.

“In Gaza, life has been increasingly difficult, if not even impossible, and the war has left everything in dire circumstances. With no ambulance or car available, a donkey was the only glimmer of hope to save Alaa and her baby. With hospitals stretched thin and access to medical care limited, Alaa knew that the journey to the hospital would be perilous.

“One evening, Alaa felt the first pangs of labour. Panic washed over her; the sounds of war echoed around her, and she felt alone in her home, filled with uncertainty. Her husband, who was with his ill elderly father at hospital, called my brother, Mohammed, for help. Mohammed called me. Then I immediately asked Mohammed to provide help, since he lives around their village, the eastern part of Khan Youns, where the roads are completely devastated. Here, it is only a donkey that can access the area.”

Mohammed called Saaeed, the owner of Fatima, whom the charity had recently treated.

“Soon after, with her heart pounding, Alaa was holding on tight, as Mohammed led the way,” Dr Saif said. “The streets were littered with stones, shrapnel, and the remnants of completely wiped-out buildings that had once stood tall and proud.

“They encountered obstacles as they made their way through the narrow, winding alleyways. A collapsed wall blocked their path, but Mohammed manoeuvred around it surprisingly deftly. The journey was long, tiring, dangerous, and the sounds of shelling were increasing to cover larger areas.

“They never expected to make it to Nasar Hospital but eventually they reached the shattered but still standing building. Surprised to see her arrive on a donkey, the medical staff rushed to her side and quickly ushered her inside to the delivery room.”

An hour later, the baby was born, and later still, he and Alaa were taken home.

“At that moment, amid the turmoil of war, there was an unshakable bond formed between a woman, her child and a donkey, who had defied the odds,” Dr Saif said. “With her quiet strength, the donkey had done more than carry a mother to safety – she had become a symbol of resilience, hope and the unbreakable spirit of those who live through the darkest of times. The donkey had not only carried Alaa but had also carried the hopes of a community yearning for better days.”

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Tiny foals born to rescued mothers take centre stage this Christmas

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 19:21:49 +0000

Two donkey foals born to rescued jennies are taking centre stage at World Horse Welfare as the charity’s Christmas campaign stars.

Mia and her foal Peanut, and Molly and her baby Popcorn, have already experienced a seasonal snowfall at World Horse Welfare’s Belwade Farm, where they have had attention from charity patron and social media influencer Esme Higgs.

“Donkeys are clever, loving, and full of personality but they need special care,” Esme said.

“I met the gorgeous Peanut and Popcorn and their rescued mums Mia and Molly, on a recent visit to Belwade Farm, and it was wonderful to see they are getting the support they deserve and learning to trust humans. This season, your help can make all the difference to these amazing animals.”

The farm’s manager Eileen Gillen said the charity was delighted to be able to share pictures of its two donkeys.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“In this case, and thanks to our supporters enabling us to be there for them, Mia and Molly are doing well here at Belwade and were able to give birth to beautiful, healthy foals,” she said.

A spokesperson for the charity said that although donkeys may appeal as pets, their needs are often misunderstood, which can cause welfare issues.

“Although they are like horses in that they like to live in a herd, donkeys also need to pair-bond with another donkey – this behaviour is instinctive and essential to their wellbeing,” the spokesperson said..

“Separating bonded pairs causes them a lot of stress and donkeys who have lost a mate can literally die from a broken heart – as the effect of this stress on their health can lead to a condition called hyperlipaemia, which can be fatal.”

Shelter is very important as donkeys’ coats are not waterproof as horses’ are, and they need a specific diet and daily enrichment activities. Foot care can also be an issue as they do not cope well with the wet UK climate.

“As far as understanding their care goes, it’s important to consider how different they are to horses as they are very good at masking their pain as a survival mechanism,” Ms Gillen said.

“This can lead to them not receiving the care they need at the right time, as the signs of ill health can be easily missed.

“While we don’t take many donkeys in at World Horse Welfare, when we do the reasons are usually the same. Rather than deliberate neglect it tends to be more down to a lack of understanding and knowledge on behalf of those responsible for their care.”

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Oh, baubles! Donkeys choose – and tuck into – their favourite Christmas decorations

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 19:21:12 +0000

Deck the walls with boughs of holly – and then tuck into them!

That’s almost what the residents of The Donkey Sanctuary at Sidmouth have been up to in the approach to Christmas, enjoying tasty wreaths, garlands and baubles.

Volunteers at the Donkey Assisted Activities Centre (DAAC) and staff used a mix of donkey-friendly willow, hazel and herbs to make the decorations, adding cut-up apples, parsnips, cucumber and carrots.

“Enrichment is very important for the resident donkeys and provides them with greater opportunities to interact with their environment, make choices and to be more mentally active,” a spokesperson for the charity said. “Enrichment also prevents boredom while the increased exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight.

(Image credit: Simon Horn)

“The edible enrichment items provide the donkeys with an extra special treat, although as with all novel food sources, feeding in moderation and under supervision is key. Thanks to the staff and volunteers, the donkeys have the opportunity to try something new while exhibiting their natural behaviour.”

DACC assistant Stephy Studley told H&H it was not just the donkeys who had fun with the decorations; the volunteers and staff enjoyed making them too.

“As we hung them around the yard, we could see the donkeys watching us with anticipation,” she said. “Once we let them in, it was fascinating to see each donkey picking and choosing their favourite treats. It was such a lovely experience and brought joy to everyone involved, especially the donkeys.”

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Donkeys and top riders celebrate Christmas in special London carol service

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 16:32:54 +0000

Top equestrians Jane Holderness-Roddam and Gemma Stevens – and two donkeys – were among the special guests at Brooke’s Christmas carol service in London.

Broadcaster and Brooke patron Alastair Stewart and comedian Rory Bremner were also at the Guards’ Chapel in Westminster last night (12 December), to which guests were welcomed by donkeys Pixie and Kiska. The event marked the equine welfare charity’s 90th anniversary.

Mr Stewart said: “We [Brooke supporters] support Brooke because we care passionately about working animals.

“The progress Brooke has made globally on the evil donkey skin trade is a fantastic example of how we as human beings can really work together to benefit these animals.

“From all of us here at Brooke, a very happy Christmas to you, and to horses, donkeys and mules all over the world, a happy, safe and peaceful year to you all.”

Brooke was formed in 1934 by Dorothy Brooke, who set out to help the emaciated war horses who were abandoned in Egypt after the First World War.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Rory Bremner said: “It was so wonderful to see so many people at the Guards’ Chapel; Dorothy Brooke started this 90 years ago, it’s extraordinary to think about.

“Now, 90 years on, Brooke is helping horses, donkeys, mules in India, Pakistan, South America and beyond, where they can be overworked or used for their skins in the case of donkeys, Brooke is there to help them. By being at the service, people can support their work for this year and beyond.”

Brooke’s 90th anniversary events are sponsored by The Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust, which has donated more than £1m to the charity to date.

Brooke CEO Chris Wainwright said: “This very special evening commemorated the 90th anniversary of Brooke’s commitment to ending the suffering of working horses, donkeys and mules across the world.

“The performance from the Guards’ Chapel Choir was phenomenal, and we are so grateful to all that attended to give their support.

“We would like to sincerely thank the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust for their longstanding support and most generous sponsorship of Brooke’s 90th anniversary events this year.”

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Donkeys help burnt out NHS staff reconnect with colleagues

Becky Murray — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 18:03:59 +0000

A group of NHS workers enjoyed a day of restoration and mindfulness thanks to donkeys.

Staff from the NHS children and adolescent mental health service spent a team day at the Donkey Sanctuary in East Devon. The session was led by the donkey assisted activities (DAA) centre and the group used the time to “reconnect with one another and share experiences, while enjoying time outdoors in the presence of donkeys”.

“The group took part in a mindfulness body scan. The purpose of a body scan is to tune into your body to reconnect to your physical self, and notice any sensations you’re feeling without judgement,” said DAA equine coach Sophie Cannon.

“Practising mindfulness techniques is a great way to help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and to focus instead on the present moment, rather than worrying about past events or what’s next in your busy schedule.”

The group then spent time with the herd of donkeys.

“All the donkeys came over to welcome the group with curiosity. Harry and William, two miniature donkeys, stole the show by photobombing the group photo, while Dennis and Zebedee, in particular, chose to spend time connecting with a few specific individuals,” said Sophie.

“The donkeys gave instant feedback, responding to the calmer energy levels of the group, which meant even some of the more anxious donkeys chose to seek interaction.”

The NHS staff help support children’s community services, including physical and mental health services, and the day aimed to combine interaction, mindfulness and coaching to support their personal development.

Rosie Preston, interim operational manager for Torbay and South Devon, said: “I really enjoyed spending time with Zebedee who seemed to love ear scratches and leant against me. I found the whole interaction very comforting.”

Children and family health Devon service lead Holly Billington added that the session “came at the perfect time with lots of staff feeling burned out”.

“It was hugely restorative,” she said. “The sanctuary team looked after us from start to finish, and we enjoyed a session with the donkeys and a mindfulness space.”

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Fancy a cuppa? Donkeys tuck in to hot tea as temperatures drop

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 20:21:40 +0000

Who doesn’t like a nice cup – or bucket – of tea, especially in weather as cold as this? And donkeys are no different, it appears.

The equine residents of The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth have been sharing an afternoon bucket of herbal tea this week, as snow covered the Devon landscape.

“Although the site has been closed to visitors yesterday [21 November] and today because of the heavy snow, dedicated staff are there to ensure the donkeys have all they need to withstand the cold weather,” a spokesperson for the charity said.

“Donkeys are not naturally suited to freezing, damp conditions having evolved in parts of the world where the environment is hot and arid. Making sure they have adequate shelter, hardstanding and plenty of dry hay, is very important to keep them healthy and well during winter.

“Like many of us when the temperature plummets, they enjoy a warm brew.”

The sanctuary is continually coming up with enrichment activities for the donkeys such as this, or ice lollies in summer.

“Donkeys enjoy warming herbal teas on chilly winter days, often lining up eagerly for the first sip,” the spokesperson told H&H.

“These drinks not only warm them up and provide enrichment, but also help keep them hydrated, especially when cold weather may make their regular cold water less appealing.

“The refreshing drinks are prepared with hot (not boiling) water, allowing the teabags to steep briefly before being removed. Grooms then always add cold water to ensure the drink is at a safe, comfortable temperature for the donkeys to enjoy.”

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Hundreds of thousands call for Amazon ejiao ban as ‘mass equine slaughter’ continues

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 15:11:06 +0000

Hundreds of thousands of people have backed calls for Amazon to stop selling ejiao products, as the trade in the donkey skins is causing “mass slaughter” worldwide.

Animal welfare groups including Brooke USA Foundation delivered petitions signed by more than 370,000 people to Amazon in the US, asking for a ban on the sale of products containing ejiao.

A spokesperson for Brooke said it is estimated that five million donkeys are killed every year to meet the growing demand for ejiao, “which has health claims that remain unproven”.

H&H has reported on efforts being made to stop the trade, which the Donkey Sanctuary has previously described as an “animal welfare disaster”.

Brooke USA chairman Jim Hamilton said: “The international trade in donkey-hide gelatin products is leading to the mass slaughter of donkeys, resulting in widespread harm to impoverished communities around the world.

“We should act immediately and help shut down this illicit trade that leads to substantial harm to humans and animals worldwide. The first step is to reduce the demand by shutting down product access.

“Amazon must set the example and remove all products containing ejiao from its online platform.”

Organisations also including the Humane Society of the United States, Ekō, American Wild Horse Conservation, the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the American Fund for Alternatives to Animal Research took part in a rally before the petition was presented.

Mares and Foals (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Global demand for the skin trade is estimated at almost five million skins per year, meaning almost half of the world’s donkeys could be wiped out in the next five years,” the Brooke spokesperson said.

“The cross-border smuggling of donkeys for their skins poses a huge risk of disease transmission from humans to animals, which could lead to another future pandemic. Brooke USA and its UK-based sister organisation Brooke are calling for a global ban on the trade, including the enforcement of current bans and a crackdown on cross-border trade.

“In 2021, the Ejiao Act was reintroduced in the House of Representatives to ban the sale and trade of ejiao in the US, which Brooke USA is lobbying to be implemented.”

Lacey Kohlmoos of Ekō, which aims to hold corporations to account for their actions, said: “It’s outrageous that Amazon continues to allow the sale of ejiao products on its site. Donkeys are being stolen from families and then subjected to dehydration and broken bones, before being bludgeoned to death and skinned.

“I hope that today’s action and the outcry of over 370,000 people from around the world finally convinces the company to do the right thing for both the affected families and the donkeys.”

The trade not only affects animals, the loss of donkeys is a major blow to communities in developing countries who depend on them for their livelihoods. In February 2024, after lobbying from welfare organisations, the African Union banned the trade.

Amazon did not respond to H&H’s requests for comment.

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Towel in a bowel: tiny filly undergoes surgery to remove unsuitable snack

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:21:53 +0000

Towels don’t fit through donkey bowels, as vets treating a miniature filly found out.

Specialists at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, US, had to operate on three-month-old Harper, as it turned out she had eaten a whole towel.

A spokesperson for the hospital said Lexi Tarpy, manager of Stone Ridge Stables, brought Harper in after she developed a fever and showed signs of colic.

“We brought her in here because our vet said it was an emergency situation,” Lexi said. “Come to find out when they went in for surgery, she ate a towel — an entire towel.”

Vets performed an exploratory celiotomy, a surgical procedure to enter the abdomen, and removed two pieces of towel that were blocking Harper’s colon.

“Removing foreign bodies from the digestive tract of an equine like a horse or donkey is uncommon,” said Elaine Claffey, assistant clinical professor of large-animal surgery.

“They’re usually pretty good at sticking to the things that they should normally eat; we don’t do as many foreign body removals as a small animal veterinarian would because dogs, as we know, are indiscriminate eaters and eat all sorts of things that they shouldn’t.”

Picture by Lexi Huck (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Harper’s condition improved quickly after the surgery but her dam Daisy then went downhill.

“Daisy arrived the day after surgery to allow Harper to nurse and put them back together,” Dr Claffey said. “But she developed a couple of fevers and had some medical issues, developed a little bit of enteritis, which is inflammation in the intestines.

“When we recognised she had these additional illnesses, our internal medicine team took over and took primary care for her case, which was great, because we really needed their expertise for her.”

Daisy was treated with IV fluids, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication and both she and Harper made a full recovery.

“It’s been hard because we couldn’t come up and see Harper and Daisy so often but they were in great hands, and we’re ready for them to come home,” Lexi said.

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Socks appeal! Donkeys beat the flies with snazzy legwear

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 14:29:55 +0000

Rescued donkeys in Italy are sporting some super-snazzy striped legs thanks to supporters’ generosity after a social media campaign.

The Donkey Sanctuary’s Italian base put out an appeal on social media for socks, asking people to send them in to protect its residents’ legs from biting insects over the summer. And the response was “fantastic”; 180 pairs were sent in, and supporters also donated €600 (£506) towards the sanctuary’s work.

Fundraising officer Ilaria Ruzza, who posted the appeal, said: “We needed long socks. It didn’t matter if they were new or used as long as they were clean, in good condition and black or grey and white over-the-knee socks.”

Research has shown that stripes, such as on zebras’ coats, help repel flies.

“Ilaria and her colleagues shared photos of their donkeys sporting their eye-catching new socks, much to the delight of supporters, and thanked them for their generosity and kindness,” a spokesperson for The Donkey Sanctuary said.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Il Rifugio degli Asinelli, the Italian arm of UK-based welfare charity The Donkey Sanctuary, is home to over 100 donkeys, near Turin.

“Now, thanks to the generosity of supporters, the resident herd can look forward to a more relaxing autumn, safe in the knowledge their stylish new legwear will help keep biting insects at bay,” the spokesperson said.

“And it’s not just on the European mainland that such measures have taken place. It is often thought that all the best fashions begin in Italy, so it’s no wonder a few donkeys closer to home have also been spotted wearing patterned leggings.

“Over the summer, grooms at The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon fitted a few of the herd with leggings in an attempt to combat the irritation of biting insects, and despite the arrival of September, some of the UK donkeys are still having to contend with them.

“But now, with the help of sanctuary volunteers, staff are in the process of designing leggings that can be attached to their fly rugs, so the donkeys who are more susceptible to the seasonal insect irritation will have total fly protection, something that will no doubt be welcomed by the resident herds.”

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‘He leaves a huge hole’: equine charity’s sad farewell to staff and visitor favourite

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 18:21:36 +0000

The loss of a donkey of a “rare and extraordinary breed” leaves a “huge hole” at his home for the past 13 years.

Poitou Dartanyan had to be put down aged 14. The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth took in the 15hh donkey in 2011 and he became a favourite with staff, volunteers and visitors, “known for his distinctive, shaggy coat and tall stature”.

Dartanyan had a history of medical conditions, including an episode of cellulitis in one of his hind legs in 2022, a spokesperson for the sanctuary explained, adding that he had since been under veterinary supervision.

“Throughout this time, staff ensured that he enjoyed a good quality of life that was enriching and enjoyable, and free from any pain or discomfort,” the spokesperson said.

“Last week however, he started showing signs of more serious illness; his grooms noticed discharge coming from his nose. Despite best efforts from the veterinary team, his health continued to decline.

“Due to his other ongoing health conditions, it was their recommendation that the kindest decision would be to put Dartanyan to sleep.”

The Poitou is named after the French region in which the breed originated, and is one of the largest types of donkey.

“Dartanyan was no shrinking violet and loved meeting people,” the charity spokesperson said. “For many visitors to the Sidmouth sanctuary, Dartanyan was the donkey they headed to first, and because of his height, he could easily put his head over his fence to greet them and was only too happy to pose for a selfie.”

Picture by The Donkey Sanctuary (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Donkey Sanctuary CEO Marianne Steele said Dartanyan was “truly an icon”.

“His presence will be dearly missed,” she said.

“It is hard to say goodbye to any donkey in our care, but our priority is always to act in the best interests of the animal concerned. Thanks to an incredible team of vet and grooms, Dartanyan was able to enjoy a long and happy life among his companions, just as he deserved.

“The legacy he leaves is a deep understanding of this rare and extraordinary breed of donkey, knowledge that will inform our work and help us improve the lives of many more Poitous, just like Dartanyan, in future.”

The spokesperson added: “Dartanyan leaves behind a huge, Poitou-sized hole at the Sidmouth sanctuary and he will be missed by staff, volunteers and visitors alike. However, he also leaves many happy memories.”

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(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

Donkey who was ‘grief-stricken’ after best friend’s death finds happiness again

(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

A Twister in the tail? Donkeys tuck in to ice lollies during heatwave

(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

Don’t try this at home! Fizzy cola treatment saves donkey with potentially fatal colic

(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Subscribe today and enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus unlimited website access and digital versions of the magazine dating back to September 2012.

‘Resilience and beauty’: Touching moment donkeys bring joy to lady living with dementia

Lucy Elder — Sat, 18 May 2024 19:27:03 +0000

Donkeys brought joy and comfort to an 89-year-old lady living with dementia, on her first outing since the pandemic.

Carol Stone brought her mother, Beryl, a life-long donkey lover, and carer Maxine to The Donkey Sanctuary in Ivybridge. Beryl, who has dementia, no longer speaks, so Carol hoped spending time in the presence of the donkeys would allow space for non-verbal communication and bring mutual benefits.

“Despite Mum’s physical limitations, she remains aware and appreciative of her surroundings, even though communication can be challenging. Witnessing her reactions to things she loves is always astonishing,” said Carol.

Monty, a 26-year-old donkey, was the first to approach Beryl. Carol said he stood “quietly and calmly next to Mum, and seemed to understand that was what he needed to do”, before others also approached.

“It was a very special moment,” said Carol. “To others it may have seemed Mum was not interacting, but Maxine and I knew she was. She stayed awake the entire time and even managed a smile.

“There are no words to describe how happy that made me – I will always have that memory.

“If Mum were able to talk, I know she would be chatting non-stop about our visit, but when she looks at the photos we took on the day and smiles, it means the world to me.

“There isn’t much I can do to enrich Mum’s life, but I truly believe that animals bring huge comfort and joy to people of any age and this visit meant so much to us – it is something I will cherish for ever.”

Anita Cota, Ivybridge centre manager, said the centre “radiated with a remarkable energy and warmth during Beryl’s visit”.

“Hearing from the team that it was Beryl’s first outing since Covid was not only very touching but also a poignant reminder of the resilience and beauty found in human connection with animals and the community,” she said.

Equine assistant Kennidy Williams added: “A moving moment I think I’ll always remember was Beryl’s apparent connection to the donkeys. Her [carer] was helping her smooth Monty and placed her hand back down. Almost instantaneously, Beryl tried to move her fingers in a stroking motion. Her carer helped lift her hand, and as soon as she felt Monty, a little smile appeared.

“The session was filled with lots of smiles and laughter. It was a pleasure seeing everyone light up around the donkeys. Her daughter expressed how much the session meant to her, and as it was Beryl’s first time out since the pandemic, it was even more special to help make those memories.”

Derek Dodd, regional manager at the Alzheimer’s Society, said the charity is “extremely grateful” to the sanctuary for providing these “incredible wellbeing sessions”, which “clearly have a wonderfully positive impact on those living with dementia”.

“One in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime, and there are currently 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK,” he said.

“Alzheimer’s Society is here for everyone affected by dementia. Call the Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk for help and advice.”

Have interactions with equines brought comfort to you or a loved one? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

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(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

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Donkey who was ‘grief-stricken’ after best friend’s death finds happiness again

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 19:21:59 +0000

A donkey who was “stricken with grief” after the death of his long-term companion has made a new “friendship for life”.

Raffles, who lived with owners Rosie and Mike Dewhurts in northern Scotland, was heartbroken when his best friend Harry died suddenly in November 2022. The Dewhursts contacted The Donkey Sanctuary for guidance.

“This was also a very traumatic time for Rosie and Mike, who not only lost one of their beloved donkeys but also saw the effect it had on Raffles,” a spokesman for the charity said.

“Over the next few weeks, and with lots of love and care, Raffles began to overcome his grief. Rosie and Mike were torn between relinquishing Raffles into the care of The Donkey Sanctuary, where they knew he’d have a loving home for life in company of other donkeys, and rehoming another donkey. They eventually decided to apply to become guardians, and were successful.”

The Dewhursts undertook Donkey Sanctuary training in preparation for their new arrival, and divided one of their fields so the two donkeys could be kept separated initially.

“Then they received the call they had been waiting for – a suitable companion for Raffles had been found,” the spokesman said.

“Bob lived among the resident herd at The Donkey Sanctuary Leeds and had been providing donkey-assisted activities to people in the surrounding community, while being trained for their rehoming scheme.

“Before coming into the care of the animal welfare charity, Bob was originally bought by his owners at Appleby Fair in Cumbria. He proved to be a bit of an escape artist and kept setting himself free. The owners were unable to secure him on their land and were concerned for his safety, but wanted the best future for him – so they made the decision to relinquish him into the care of the sanctuary.”

Bob arrived at the Dewhursts’ home in Aberdeenshire last August.

“When Raffles saw him, he cantered over to meet him across the fence,” the spokesman said.

“The pair then spent around 20 minutes trotting back and forth along the rails getting to know each other.”

The pair were put in the same field and within half an hour, were grazing side by side.

“To see Raffles with Bob was wonderful,” Rosie said. “He had been alone for seven months and now finally both donkeys had the chance of happiness together.

“Initially we spent a great deal of time with both, sometimes sitting for an hour or two observing them and offering cuddles if they came to say hello to us. But as Bob settled, we gave them more time alone. We gave them quiet time and space, and within two months they were fully bonded, playing games together and mutually grooming.

“The whole experience has been so positive for Mike and me, but more importantly for Raffles and Bob.”

‘Her passing leaves a big hole in our hearts’: equine welfare charity’s tribute to adoption star

Becky Murray — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 18:06:53 +0000

A “big hole” has been left in the hearts of staff and visitors of the Donkey Sanctuary following the death of a “well-loved” long-term resident.

On 13 February 12-year-old Bonnie started showing signs of colic, and it “quickly became apparent that her condition was very serious” and she deteriorated.

“The team made the decision to urgently refer Bonnie for colic surgery, as it was apparent her condition could not be managed without. She underwent emergency surgery that night and was monitored continuously afterwards,” said a Donkey Sanctuary spokesman.

The spokesman said that although the operation went well, by 16 February Bonnie’s health had declined further and on the recommendation of the charity’s vet team and the specialist colic surgeons, the “heartbreaking” decision was made to put Bonnie down.

“She passed in comfort and peace with her donkey friend Bud by her side. We are keeping a close eye on Bud as he mourns the loss of his friend.”

The spokesman said Bonnie was “well-known and well-loved” by all. She arrived with the charity as a foal alongside her mum Penny and friend Flash, when their owner became unwell and could no longer care for them.

Bonnie - Adoption Portraits 2022 Full body (Image credit: Edoardo Santangelo)

“Bonnie spent her early months with her mum until she was weaned. She was then moved to be with other youngsters in their paddock,” he said, adding that she was one of the largest in her group and “loved being the centre of attention”.

“She would often manoeuvre herself through the herd so she was always first in line at meal times. She would try to open the door as the grooms put out the food. We even had to ‘Bonnie-proof’ them.”

The spokesman added that Bonnie got on with all her friends, and was protective of her smaller companions.

“She adored being fussed over and was known for trying to get a second turn before the grooming session was over. Sometimes she was a little too ‘helpful’, running off with brushes when they dropped on the floor or leaning over the grooms’ shoulders to see what they were doing,” he said.

Maxine Carter, Slade House farm manager at the Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, said Bonnie’s passing “leaves a big hole in our hearts”.

“Whenever people came to shoot videos or take pictures, she’d love to go and meet them all. Any help with microphones or tripods – or any reason to get attention – there she’d be at the front of the queue,” she said.

“Bonnie’s memory will remain strong with the team – she truly had the most amazing character and loving nature.”

The spokesman added that Bonnie will be missed by her donkey friends, grooms, volunteers and visitors.

“Rest in peace our sweet Bonnie,” he said.

‘An animal welfare disaster’ as six million donkeys slaughtered every year

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 07:01:35 +0000

Almost six million donkeys are slaughtered every year for their skins, new figures show, in what has been described as an “animal welfare disaster”.

The Donkey Sanctuary has today (16 February) released a report showing that at least 5.9m donkeys are killed every year to make eijao, a traditional Chinese remedy. Manufacture of eijao, which is made using collagen from donkey skins and marketed as a luxury product, has doubled in the past five years, driving the slaughter after the “rapid decline” of China’s donkey population.

Marianne Steele, CEO of The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “The slaughter of six million donkeys every year is an animal welfare disaster. Donkeys are a lifeline to people living in some of the most challenging environments on earth where the loss of a donkey can be the difference between modest survival and destitution.

“Donkeys have been invisible in political debate for too long. For this issue to have reached the highest levels of decision-making in Africa and Brazil recognises the scale and brutality of the skin trade, and the vital role of donkeys around the world.”

The charity has released its report in time for the African Union Summit, on 17 and 18 February, at which heads of state will “determine the fate of donkeys across the continent”.

“In response to the existential threat facing donkeys in Africa, heads of state and government are expected to endorse a report which recommends a continent-wide ban on the slaughter of donkeys for their skin,” a Donkey Sanctuary spokesman said.

“The final ratification of the report will be announced during the 37th African Union Summit, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to protect donkeys and the communities that rely on them.

“On the other side of the Atlantic in Brazil, where donkeys are also trafficked and killed for the skin trade in large numbers, a bill to ban the slaughter of all equids is expected to pass the National Congress in 2024.”

A worker carries one of many dried donkey skins at a slaughterhouse in Kenya. Picture by The Donkey Sanctuary (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Donkey Sanctuary researchers used previously published statistical modelling and the most recent production figures from the ejiao industry to give the estimate of the number of donkey skins needed to keep pace with demand. The 5.9 million is their “most conservative estimate”; the figure is projected to reach 6.7m by 2027.

Faith Burden, executive director of equine operations and deputy CEO of The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “These new figures are shocking, even to those who were already aware of the skin trade. Donkeys suffer at every stage of the trade – from being taken, transported long distances and held, often terrified and in overcrowded conditions, before they are slaughtered and discarded after their skins have been removed.

“Donkeys are intelligent and sentient animals who deserve protection in law. A ban on their slaughter and export across Africa and Brazil would represent a huge win for donkey and animal welfare and for the many millions of people who depend upon them.”

Calvin Solomon Onyango, director of The Donkey Sanctuary in Kenya said he sees the “devastating” impact of the skin trade.

“Not just the horrific treatment of these gentle animals, but also the effect it has on women, children and the communities who rely on donkeys for their social and economic lives,” he said.

“The skin trade is inflating the price of donkeys here in Kenya and across Africa, making it very hard for families to replace an animal after it has been sold or stolen. Agents working for the ejiao industry persuade people, already living on the brink of poverty, to sell their animals for short-term gain. The reality is the long-term loss of livelihood, and eventually, the loss of a way of life for many communities.

“The destructive impact of the trade has led the governments of countries including Kenya, Nigeria and Tanzania, to outlaw donkey slaughter. However, the demand is such that we now see the emergence of illegal bush slaughter, with hundreds of donkeys taken or stolen and slaughtered for their skin.”

Dr Onyango said there is now a strong will in governments to protect donkeys and the people who rely on them.

“We are therefore hopeful that Africa’s heads of state will ban the slaughter of donkeys for their skins, across the continent,” he said. “Based on what we have seen here in Kenya, if the exploitation of donkeys continues at this rate, in another three to six years, donkeys could be joining rhino and elephants as an endangered species in Africa.”

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Don’t try this at home! Fizzy cola treatment saves donkey with potentially fatal colic

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:51:58 +0000

If ever there were a case of “don’t try this at home”, this could be it – a donkey with a potentially fatal condition saved by 24 litres of fizzy cola.

Vets at The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth treated 15-year-old Joey’s large gastric impaction by administering the cola, in “carefully controlled conditions”, via a tube that went up his nose and directly into his stomach. The Donkey Sanctuary has warned that cola should never be given to healthy equids, or by anyone other than a vet.

A spokesman for the charity explained that Joey stopped eating after his elderly mother Josie died last November.

“Soon after that, Joey developed a large gastric impaction, meaning he had a solid blockage of food in his stomach that he was unable to pass through into his small intestine,” he said.

“His situation was looking serious, so vets at the animal welfare charity rushed into action, giving Joey an abdominal ultrasound and conducting a process called gastroscopy, which meant putting a camera up his nose and into his stomach. They then devised a plan to treat the blockage in Joey’s stomach.”

Donkey Sanctuary vet Jamie Forrest said intensive treatment was needed to resolve the impaction.

“As well as pain relief, we flushed Joey’s stomach with cola several times a day to dissolve the solid,” he said.

“We used six litres of full-sugar cola a day, spread out over three treatments, for four days, to soften and dissolve the impactions in his stomach so the ingesta could once again travel to his intestine. In essence, the cola acted like a drain cleaner. It eats away at the firm matter and eventually softens it to a point where it can pass.”

Joey was put on a restricted diet to stop the impaction from getting larger, and the sugar in the cola also helped reduce the risk of Joey developing hyperlipaemia, a potentially fatal disease if not treated promptly.

“In Joey’s case, we were concerned about the risk.” Jamie said. “It was quite likely that he would have developed hyperlipaemia had we not intervened.”

After four days of cola treatment, described as a “fizzy pop op” by the charity, Joey showed signs of recovery, and another gastroscopy showed the blockage had cleared.

“During his treatment, Joey struck up a friendship with another bereaved donkey called Ben, who had recently lost his closely bonded companion,” the spokesman said. “They had been introduced as grooms hoped that their shared experience of loss would help them to comfort one another.

“Although it is still early days, their friendship is still flourishing, and grooms believe their future together looks promising.”

Jamie added: “We are really pleased with Joey’s recovery. It was touch and go for a while whether we continued treatment, as the impaction was quite severe.

“Thankfully, he pulled through. We thought he had the strength to survive so we persevered with the treatment, and we couldn’t be happier with the result.”

British Equine Veterinary Association junior vice-president Imogen Burrows told H&H using cola to break up a gastric impaction is a well-known treatment.

“It’s important this treatment is only carried out by a vet, as it could cause serious harm if used in the wrong situation,” she said. “The diagnosis needs to be made by a vet, using the correct tools, such as a gastroscope, and treatment must take place in a controlled way under supervision.

“It’s important to check when the treatment has worked, by repeating the gastroscopy, as you do not want to be passing cola into a stomach where there is not an impaction any more! It seems that the corrosive and effervescent nature of cola is important, in creating a combined effect. I have used diet lemonade in the absence of cola, and I think the cola worked better due to the acids it contains.

“It’s essential that other supportive treatments are used alongside the cola – it shouldn’t be used alone without a vet being involved. It’s important to be mindful of blood sugars spikes and close patient monitoring is required.”

‘I’ve been given a second chance’: young man turns his life around thanks to donkeys

Becky Murray — Sun, 14 Jan 2024 19:33:07 +0000

A young man who spent two years struggling with alcohol and drug addiction has been “given a reason to live again”, thanks to a donkey-assisted activity programme.

Kaiden, 20, from Leeds, described his life as a “dark place”, in which he was “surviving and not living”. He lived with his dad and girlfriend, smoking cannabis and drinking alcohol, and he struggled to keep a job.

Kaiden was accepted into the care coordination pathway at EMERGE Leeds, having been referred by his GP for “interpersonal and emotional difficulties”. EMERGE Leeds is a specialist service covering West Yorkshire, provided by Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. The service works with people aged 18-25, some of whom are new to mental health services or are transitioning to adult services from child and adolescent mental health services.

After a period of work with his care coordinator, Kaiden was introduced to occupational therapy, which included a donkey-assisted activity programme at The Donkey Sanctuary in Leeds. The centre is one of six in the UK that offer services to the local community, while providing refuge for donkeys in need.

A spokesman for the programme said that when Kaiden initially turned up to sessions his hair would cover his face to limit the amount of eye contact he had with others, and he responded to questions with one-word answers. But in time, he said he felt “listened to”, and “not judged”. He started attending sessions dressed differently and said he wanted to “make an effort, feel smart, and be more open”. He had his hair cut, and his facial expressions changed, with “warm smiles, and obvious connections being made with the donkeys”.

“Before I came to The Donkey Sanctuary my life was really unpleasant. I had nothing to live for, nothing to look forward to and enjoyed no part of my life,” said Kaiden.

“Since working with EMERGE Leeds and the donkeys, I feel transformed. I feel confident in myself, I feel positive and I look forward to each new day. I’m only 20 and feel like I’ve been given a second chance to live again and I’m going to grab that chance with both hands and take it.”

“I wanted to make the video so that other people like me can be helped, so that they can see they are not alone, that they can get help and that things can get better,” said Kaiden.

“While individuals can reflect on their own emotions and identify how they can develop life skills, the donkeys learn to trust people again and grow in their own confidence, so these programmes are a real win-win experience for everyone involved.”

Nicola Binns, EMERGE associate practitioner and staff clinical governor, said the visits to the sanctuary have helped the service’s clients “grow in confidence, engage more and learn how to build trust in themselves and others”.

“Many find comfort in the calm and accepting presence of the animals. It’s great for slowing down and helping us be more in the present,” she said.

‘I’ve never experienced anything like it’: police ‘uplifted’ by spending time with donkeys

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 19:21:33 +0000

A group of police officers came away “uplifted” and relaxed from a wellbeing session with a herd of donkeys.

Residents of The Donkey Sanctuary’s Leeds centre met officers from West Yorkshire Police. The visit was arranged thanks to former police officer Kate Edwards, who joined the Leeds team as an equine assistant this year, and “saw the positive benefit the donkeys could have on the welfare of her former police colleagues”.

Kate, who was a police officer for nearly 20 years, “found that like many of her colleagues, she had sometimes disregarded the importance of her wellbeing and self-care”, a spokesman for the charity said.

Kate added: “From my time in the police, I had first-hand experience of how pressured and mentally draining daily life can become.

“In the dictionary, wellbeing is defined as being comfortable, healthy and happy, and far too often we neglect our mental wellbeing. We can often overlook and fail to recognise our thoughts and feelings, making us miss opportunities to manage the pressures of daily life.

“Now in my new role, I am lucky enough to be able to champion donkeys and the beneficial donkey-assisted activity programmes available at our Leeds sanctuary.”

The officers came in two groups of six, to enjoy a “showcase presentation”, after which they met the herd.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“The groups went on to prepare and take part in elements of a donkey-assisted activity session, followed by some donkey enrichment, allowing everyone to gain an understanding of how valuable a good mental state is to both donkeys and humans,” the spokesman said.

“The morning concluded with each participant taking a donkey on a group mindful walk around the sanctuary’s sensory track.”

One of the officers said this walk was the highlight of the day, as it was “peaceful and allowed me to take in the moment”. Another said: “I was quite nervous and sceptical about our visit, though I quickly realised that donkeys are not the animals I believed them to be. They are so intelligent and emotive.”

A third officer added: “I have never experienced anything like it, it was a delight and it left me feeling uplifted.”

Kate said the sanctuary lives up to its name.

“The Donkey Sanctuary is just that – a safe welcoming place for discovery, learning and empowerment,” she said.” In a high stress job like the police, it can be very difficult for officers to regulate their own mental health, often pouring all their time into helping others and forgetting to look after themselves.

“My friends at West Yorkshire Police gave overwhelmingly positive feedback about how visiting the donkeys helped them find some needed relaxation, and I’m so pleased we were able to offer them the opportunity to take time out from their busy frontline roles.”

‘Potential to save millions of donkeys’: end of ‘brutal’ trade could be in sight

Lucy Elder — Sat, 30 Dec 2023 19:32:03 +0000

A ban on the slaughter of donkeys and export of their skins in Brazil and every country in Africa is a step closer.

Skins are used to produce a traditional Chinese remedy, called ejiao. It is putting donkey populations under serious risk, and by extension is a threat to the communities that rely on donkeys.

Laws on both sides of the Atlantic are expected to pass in early 2024, which is hoped will effectively cut off supply from two of the biggest markets.

The “Donkeys in Africa Now and in the Future” report, which called for a 15-year ban on the trade, has received the endorsement of the African Union’s specialised technical committee on agriculture, rural development, water and environment. The African Union is made up of 55 member states that represent all the countries on the African continent, and this report was produced by its inter-African bureau for animal resources, with support from the International Coalition for Working Equids.

The report will be put forward to the assembly of heads of states and governments for adoption in February 2024.

In Brazil, the bill to ban donkey and horse slaughter has passed both the agricultural and environmental commissions, and will now go to the constitution and justice committee.

The Donkey Sanctuary has long campaigned for the end of the trade.

The charity’s director of advocacy and campaigns, Ian Cawsey, said the proposed measures “have the potential to save the lives of millions of donkeys every year”.

“The Donkey Sanctuary’s ‘Stop the Slaughter — end the donkey skin trade’ campaign is the single biggest donkey protection initiative we have undertaken in 50 years of operation,” said Mr Cawsey.

“The ending of slaughter and export of donkey products for the skin trade in 56 countries across two continents is closer than ever and would be a huge milestone on the road to ending the global donkey skin trade.”

‘A great outcome’ for more than 70 donkeys as complex rescue case concludes

Becky Murray — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 20:21:43 +0000

A “complex” multi-agency rescue case has concluded, with more than 70 donkeys signed into the care of The Donkey Sanctuary before Christmas.

In February 2021 the RSPCA led the rescue operation at a farm in Wales, with support from The Donkey Sanctuary, Redwings, World Horse Welfare, the British Horse Society and Bransby Horses.

The case was the largest in The Donkey Sanctuary’s history, and a spokesman said the donkeys were in “varying degrees of distress”, many suffering from issues relating to “badly overgrown hooves and unsanitary living conditions”.

“Many in the group, which included 20 pregnant mares, required urgent veterinary, farriery and dental care – all of which were provided by The Donkey Sanctuary,” a spokesman for the charity said.

This month the transfer of legal ownership to The Donkey Sanctuary has concluded following three years of legal proceedings. This means all the donkeys, including the foals born since the rescue, “can now be assured of a safe home for life”.

“Those that require specialist, lifelong treatment will remain at The Donkey Sanctuary while for the others, this legal milestone means they can now begin in earnest their journey toward finding forever homes through the charity’s rehoming scheme,” said the spokesman.

Hannah Bryers, head of welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary, said the case is a “fantastic example” of multiple organisations working together to ensure the “best long-term outcome” for the donkeys.

“Accommodating such a large number of donkeys at short notice was not an easy task but teams from across The Donkey Sanctuary came together without question to ensure we could offer a place of safety when these donkeys needed us most,” she said.

Faith Burden, the charity’s executive director of equine operations, added: “This is a great outcome for the donkeys involved in what is the largest UK rescue The Donkey Sanctuary has undertaken in its 54-year history.

“Although they have been in our care since the day of the rescue, protracted legal proceedings meant the future of many of the donkeys was in limbo. The court ruling that all donkeys involved should remain in our care is a huge relief to our staff and supporters. To have secured a safe future for these donkeys is thanks to the close collaboration of a number of agencies, who came together at a time of utmost urgency.

“Of course, it wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of the people who enable The Donkey Sanctuary to carry out the work that we do, so we can be there for donkeys who are most in need.”

Why hang a wreath on your door when you can eat it? Equines tuck in

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 20:21:42 +0000

Everyone loves a Christmas wreath – and equine residents of The Donkey Sanctuary’s centres across the country are no different.

Staff at the charity’s regional centres, as well as its main base in Sidmouth, Devon, have been creating some “festive enrichment” for their equine residents.

Most people may boringly hang their Christmas wreaths on their front doors – but the donkeys enjoyed tucking in to theirs.

“Donkeys at The Donkey Sanctuary have been enjoying some festive enrichment this week, munching on some specially made Christmas wreaths,” a spokesman for the charity said.

“The garlands were carefully crafted by staff at the sanctuary, using willow, herbs and selected pieces of cut-up fruit and vegetables.”

The spokesman added that enrichment is a very important part of life for all the charity’s resident donkeys, and it “provides them with greater opportunities to interact with their environment, make choices and to be more mentally active”.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Enrichment also prevents boredom, he said, and the increased exercise helps the donkeys maintain a healthy weight.

“The garlands provide the donkeys with an extra-special treat, although as with all novel food sources, feeding in moderation and under supervision is key,” the spokesman said.

“And thanks to their grooms, the resident donkeys have the opportunity to try something new while exhibiting their natural behaviour.”

Police hunt driver who left injured foal to die in the road

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 18:09:14 +0000

A foal was hit by a vehicle and left to die on the roadside by a driver who left the scene.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary is appealing for any witnesses to or information about the hit-and-run death of the young donkey in the New Forest last week.

“This occurred in Brook, on the B3078 Roger Penny Way near the junction with Longcross Plain Road at around 5pm on Sunday, 3 December in dark and wet conditions,” a police spokesman said.

“The offending vehicle left the scene in the direction of Fordingbridge and Downton, leaving a broken mirror and headlight glass on the carriageway. The foal was later put down by agisters due to injuries received.”

Police said it is thought the vehicle involved in the incident was an older variety, as it had a glass rather than a plastic headlight.

“We would like to thank the members of the public who stopped, called police and then remained to look after the foal,” the spokesman said.

“If you witnessed the incident or have seen a vehicle with recent damage similar to this, please call 101 quoting reference 44230494153.”

Roger Penny Way is one of the worst roads in the forest for collisions involving animals. H&H reported on a trial of putting salt licks in the area to try to keep animals away from the road, in January 2022.

‘I thought he’d died’: top vet team saves tiny donkey in five-hour operation

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:28:40 +0000

The life of a miniature donkey who was repeatedly staggering and collapsing as his heart was failing has been saved by the fitting of a pacemaker.

Prince Buttons is thought to be one of just a handful of donkeys in the world to have undergone the procedure, which in his case was a five-hour operation at Rainbow Equine Hospital, Malton.

Buttons’ owner Denise Hart contacted the hospital as her five-year-old miniature donkey was having episodes where he would stagger, then collapse.

“It was horrific, and the first time it happened I thought he’d died,” she said. “Then the episodes became more frequent and sometimes he would be cantering around the field and just drop to the ground.

“I was very worried about him and [his half-brother] Rolo would also get very upset and stressed. He would be my early warning system because he could sense something was wrong and bray very loudly even before Buttons collapsed.”

After observation and testing, Gemma Tyner, who is on Rainbow’s equine internal medicine specialist team, diagnosed a potentially fatal heart condition called bradycardia, a very slow and irregular heartbeat.

Gemma said Button’s heartbeat would block, or stop functioning normally, repeatedly, for up to 24 seconds at a time. This meant blood was not being pumped around his body, which made him pass out.

“Buttons’ condition was very serious and that is a very long time to go without a normal heartbeat,” she said. “Unfortunately, it’s not something that can be managed with medication and, sadly, euthanasia had to be considered. If left untreated Buttons’ health would continue to deteriorate because his heart would gradually weaken and his other organs would begin to fail as well because of blood not circulating to them properly.

“But I was able to tell Buttons’ owner the good news that there was an option to save his life, which was fitting a pacemaker.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Gemma gathered an “A team” of vets to treat Buttons, including Celia Marr, a specialist in internal medicine at Rossdales Veterinary Surgeons in Newmarket, a sister practice of Rainbow Equine Hospital, and small animal surgeons Chris Linney and Julie Kavanagh, from Paragon Veterinary Referrals in Wakefield, who perform the surgery in dogs.

The pacemaker, the size of a large box of matches, was inserted into a pocket in Buttons’ neck and wires connected to his heart.

“The pacemaker has been programmed to activate if Buttons’ heart rate drops lower than 30bpm, and it sends an alert if the heart regularly drops below this rate,” Gemma said.

“We are absolutely delighted how successful the operation was and with Buttons’ recovery. The pacemaker, which should last Buttons at least 15 years, has been extremely well tolerated by him. He hasn’t collapsed since it was fitted, which means it’s doing its job, and hopefully it will allow him to enjoy a long and happy life.”

The donkey is recovering at home with Denise and Rolo, who accompanied him on all his hospital visits.

Denise said: “I can’t thank the team at Rainbow enough, and everyone else involved in Buttons’ surgery, for saving his life. Gemma did an amazing job bringing such an experienced team together and Buttons was looked after extremely well at the hospital.

“Fitting a pacemaker is a major procedure, but I would be totally lost without Buttons and I had to do everything I could to help him. I’ve been very ill with breast cancer and bone cancer and my two donkeys have helped me to stay positive and given me a reason to get out of bed in the morning because they rely on me to care for them. They are such a joy to have around.”

She added: “Since the surgery, Buttons is a different donkey and he’s much friendlier and happier, which shows how unwell he was feeling before the pacemaker was fitted. It’s so lovely to see him enjoying life out in the paddock with Rolo and it’s all thanks to the team at Rainbow and the external specialists who all worked to undertake this unique procedure.”

A Twister in the tail? Donkeys tuck in to ice lollies during heatwave

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 14:21:10 +0000

Everyone loves an ice lorry when it’s as hot as this – and none more so than the residents of The Donkey Sanctuary.

Staff at the charity’s bases have been creating the lollies from a variety of ingredients to make them smell interesting and appealing. These include grated carrot, apple and hazel leaves in water, flavoured tea and cordial.

“Not only do the frozen treats help cool the donkeys down, they also provide a valuable form of enrichment,” a charity spokesman said. “Donkeys are naturally curious and love exploring, and this activity allows them to exhibit their natural foraging behaviours – a key factor in improving donkey welfare.”

The spokesman added that it is vital also to provide the donkeys with clean water and shelter at all times.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“As the hot weather continues, donkeys as well as humans need to keep cool,” The Donkey Sanctuary’s Manchester centre manager Robina Melling told H&H. “Providing enrichment for our donkeys can also improve their mental wellbeing.”

Lisa Cooke, supervisor of the charity’s Woods Farm, added that the team likes to “go above and beyond for our donkeys during the hot weather to try to make them more comfortable”.

“Our dedicated staff make up the frozen treats with varied ingredients to encourage the donkeys to try out different flavours,” she said. “The ‘lollies’ are placed in shaded areas around the yards and fields, which encourages the donkeys’ natural behaviour while also keeping them cool.”

Much-loved donkey who lived her best lifediesaged 64

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 16:10:17 +0000

A donkey who spent decades living her best life and delighting the public – and was thought to be the oldest in the UK, if not the world’s oldest donkey – has died at the age of 64.

Staff and visitors at Hatton Adventure World have paid tribute to Bubble, after the years finally caught up with her.

“She knew it was time and I knew it was time,” assistant manager Alice Latham told H&H.

“The vet was absolutely lovely. I sat with her and it was peaceful, and the best possible send-off she could have had. She was one of my favourites.”

Alice said Bubble arrived at the Warwickshire attraction 25 years ago, and became a favourite with visitors as well as staff. She starred in the film Nativity! and took a star role in Hatton’s own nativity plays.

“In her later years, she spent a lot of time in our ‘farmyard favourites’, being brushed and pampered and loved,” Alice said. “Animals know you on a different level and she was very knowing, and she was funny. She used to bray, and then fart at the same time, in the middle of farmyard favourites when it was full of people; this old lady who had not a care in the world, letting out these massive brays and farts and everyone would look horrified. It was fantastic.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Alice said donkeys can be stubborn but Bubble had full trust in her carers at all times.

“She loved a carrot and a scratch and a cuddle,” she said. “She’d come and lean on you, she was a massive character – I could talk about her all day!”

Alice said as Bubble got older, staff worked closely with vets to ensure she was happy and “give her the best possible care and life”.

“She never lost her spark,” she said.

And when Bubble did show that the time had come, Alice made the toughest and best decision.

“You have a responsibility to make that decision when you look after animals, and it was the right one but it’s so hard,” she said. “Hopefully we’re going to have a memorial here, to tell people about her. Lots of our members have been in touch to say what a character she was, which is really nice.”

The park attracts a lot of visitors who may never have seen donkeys or farm animals before, and Alice said Bubble was always happy to give people their first experience.

“She was always willing to greet anyone and get a scratch, which was lovely,” she said. “There are children who are scared to touch anything but if they go away having stroked animals, they might find an interest which is amazing. I wouldn’t have gone down this path without places like this when I was little. Animals like Bubble are so important.”

‘Beyond thrilled’ as tiny stolen donkey foal returns home

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 12:13:02 +0000

A weeks-old donkey foal stolen over a fortnight ago has been reunited with her owner – and her mother – after “fantastic” police work and public response.

Moon, who was 12 weeks old at the time, was taken from Miller’s Ark Animals, Hampshire, on 15 May. “Countless” members of the public contacted police as they investigated – and the foal was recovered from Buckinghamshire last night (31 May).

“We are beyond excited, ecstatic,” said Pamela Jessopp of Miller’s Ark. “You always hold out hope but as the time frame and the time window got larger you do wonder if she would be found or not.

“We are very grateful to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Surrey Police and Thames Valley Police for their support and investigation and for the speedy action last night.”

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A spokesman for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said the farm, which had been sent information about Moon, contacted the force last night.

“We immediately deployed officers to an address in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire,” the spokesman said.

“At around 8.15pm the stolen donkey was located, recovered and returned, to the delight of the owners.”

Police Sergeant Stuart Ross, of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Countrywatch team, added: “This was a fantastic piece of joint working from Countrywatch and Thames Valley Police’s Rural Task Force team.

“Our appeals to find Moon attracted countless calls and online reports from members of the public with possible sightings and potential lines of enquiry and we want to thank everyone who shared these appeals and got in touch with us.

“We are absolutely delighted about this positive outcome.”

A Miller’s Ark spokesman added that the team liaised with Thames Valley Police and recovered Moon.

“We are beyond thrilled and mum and foal are finally back together,” she said. “Moon appears to be in good health, thank heaven, and we will make sure that Moon and her mum Astra get lots of love and care as they rediscover each other.

The Countrywatch team will continue its investigation into the theft of Moon. Anyone with information should call 101 quoting reference 44230191581.

Can you help? Foal spotted in car as police search for stolen donkey

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 25 May 2023 16:55:41 +0000

Police and the devastated owners of a two-month-old donkey who was stolen from her mother have made renewed appeals for information after a possible sighting of the foal.

Tiny Moon was stolen from her field at Miller’s Ark Animals, Blackstock Lane, Hook, on the afternoon of Monday, 15 May.

“Sadly this afternoon at Miller’s Ark little Moon has been stolen from the field,” a spokesman for the farm said at the time. “We are completely devastated and incredibly concerned, she was only born at the beginning of March and needs to be with her mum.

“This little donkey will be braying loudly tonight because she will be missing her mum badly. This is our chance to find her. If you or anyone you know took her, please return her to the farm tonight, so she can go back with her mother who is very distressed.”

Hampshire Constabulary has this week put out a new call for information.

“We have received several reports from members of the public with possible sightings and potential lines of enquiry,” a spokesman for the force said.

“Our officers are following up all leads we get and we would like to thank those who have taken the time to report these to us.”

The spokesman said there is one particular report on which officers would like more information.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“A woman reported she had been driving with her friend at about 3pm on 15 May on Upper Hale Road in Farnham when she came to a stop at some traffic lights at the junction with A325,” he said. “She said the car in front of her, a blue estate of unknown make and model, had a baby donkey in the back. The blue estate turned right at the traffic lights towards Farnham.

“CCTV enquiries have been carried out in the area and we would now like the public’s help in locating this vehicle and identifying the make and model. If you were driving in this area around 3pm on 15 May and have a dash cam on your vehicle, your footage may be of use to our investigation.”

Miller’s Ark added: “A plea for anyone who may have been driving in the area at this relevant time and date, businesses and residents to check any dashcam footage, CCTV or doorbell footage which may extend on to the road.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting reference 44230191581.

Donkey plays star role in BAFTA-winning film – with hopes high for an Oscar

Lucy Elder — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 18:09:06 +0000

The Donkey Sanctuary has added its voice to those celebrating the BAFTA success of The Banshees of Inisherin, welcoming the way in which donkeys are portrayed in the film.

The Banshees of Inisherin won four BAFTAs last night (19 February), including outstanding British film. Set and filmed in Ireland, it was eligible for that award owing to the Channel 4 funding it received.

The dark tragicomedy features Jenny the donkey as one of the film’s central characters.

“At its heart, this is a film about companionship,” said a spokesman for the Donkey Sanctuary.

“The bond between Padraic and [donkey] Jenny symbolises true friendship. Unlike Colm, Jenny the donkey is characteristically patient, loyal and reliable – the human friend we’d all love to have.”

The film’s BAFTA success follows recognition at the Golden Globes. It is also tipped for Oscars glory next month, as is EO, a Cannes award-winning film that shows the world from a donkey’s perspective.

“What’s so refreshing about the way donkeys have been portrayed in Banshees and EO is that they have been shown as the inquisitive, sensitive and loveable animals they are,” added the spokesman.

“Donkeys have been loyal and trusted companions to humans for millennia. We are delighted by the success of these films and the fact donkeys are finally getting their moment in the spotlight.

“We will certainly be keeping our fingers (and hooves!) crossed that EO, Jerzy Skolimowski’s sensitive and insightful portrayal of a donkey, takes home the Oscar for best international feature film.”

‘An Oscar-shaped hole’: heartbreak as elderly donkey and fans’ favourite put down aged 28

Becky Murray — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 10:12:57 +0000

One of the Donkey Sanctuary’s oldest residents, who was known for being “larger than life”, has been put down aged 28 following a bout of colic.

Oscar was relinquished into the charity’s care as a foal in 1995 when his owner was unable to care for him, and in 2000 he arrived at the Donkey Sanctuary’s Birmingham sanctuary where he became a permanent resident.

“During his time with us Oscar became well known for his curious and friendly personality. His approachable demeanour led to him spending several years participating in donkey-assisted activities, helping many children and adults on their self-development journeys,” said a charity spokesman

“He loved human interaction and always enjoyed a good stroke from everyone he met, helping him establish loving relationships with many visitors, adopters and staff.”

The spokesman added that during his 23 years at the centre Oscar became bonded partners with Moses, who died in 2018.

Oscar developed ongoing issues with his teeth in his later years, and remained closely monitored by Donkey Sanctuary staff, but on Saturday (11 February) he started to show signs of colic.

“After he was given medication, his grooms noticed he was not responding to the treatment and his symptoms deteriorated over the coming hours. He was closely monitored, with one of his loving grooms checking on him through the night,” said the spokesman, who added that on Sunday morning the “heartbreaking decision” was made to put Oscar down on veterinary advice.

“He passed in comfort and peace, surrounded by his loving staff members and with his donkey friends close by.”

Sara Gee, Donkey Sanctuary Birmingham equine coordinator, said “larger than life was an apt description of Oscar”.

“His inquisitive nature endeared him to staff and visitors,” she said. “Saying goodbye is always hard. The staff and our supporting veterinary team have all worked tirelessly over the last few months to keep Oscar comfortable following his dental problems. With the sudden onset of colic, and given his age, it was important that Oscar did not suffer

“He leaves an Oscar-shaped hole in our hearts and will be dearly missed. We, and all those he has touched during his long association with our sanctuary have many happy memories.”

Donkeys ‘capture hearts worldwide’ as two films tipped for Oscar nomination

Becky Murray — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 17:39:00 +0000

Donkeys are “capturing hearts worldwide”, as two films starring them are tipped for Oscar nominations when they are revealed tomorrow (24 January 2023).

The Banshees of Inisherin stars Colin Farrell and miniature donkey Jenny, who plays the role of his best friend. The film, written and directed by Martin McDonagh, won three Golden Globes this month and is expected to be among the contenders for Oscar nomination.

Also expected to make the shortlist is the Jerzy Skolimowski-directed EO, which tells the story of a donkey’s journey through the hands of different owners, some who treat him well and some who do not.

“While EO and The Banshees of Inisherin are a celebration of donkeys and their special relationship with humans, they also expose their vulnerability and some of the many and varied challenges donkeys face all over the world as innocent animals often exploited and abused by humans,” said a Donkey Sanctuary spokesman.

Faith Burden, executive director of equine operations at the Donkey Sanctuary, said EO is “beautifully shot” and offers the opportunity to view the world from a donkey’s perspective.

“The portrayal and billing of the donkey as the central character clearly demonstrates the film-maker’s deep appreciation of these emotional and highly intelligent animals. Although we do not encourage the use of donkeys purely for entertainment, we do appreciate that films featuring donkeys can be used to educate, inform and advocate on their behalf,” she said.

“In recognising and celebrating the intrinsic value of donkeys, we hope these poignant films will elevate the status of donkeys in the eyes of the public and give them the recognition and status they deserve.”

The Donkey Sanctuary has created its own short film, Innocent Lives, to raise awareness of the illegal trade of donkey skins around the world.

“Many people will be shocked to discover that around five million donkeys are brutally slaughtered every year to produce ejiao, a traditional Chinese medicine made from donkey skins. Campaigning for an end to the skin trade is just one element of the Donkey Sanctuary’s efforts to improve the lives of donkeys everywhere, through advocacy, legislation, research and education,” the spokesman said.

“Closer to home, the real donkeys of Inisherin – on the Isle of Inis Mor where the The Banshees of Inisherin was made – are just a few of the animals in remote places to benefit from the charity’s outreach.”

‘These beautiful girls will only grow in confidence’: rescue donkeys making a difference this Christmas

Lucy Elder — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 20:21:36 +0000

Three neglected donkeys are “growing in confidence” and supporting vulnerable people, having been rescued by an animal welfare charity.

Laura, Snowy and Big Ears (“Bea”) were found living in South Wales in 2020 with no shelter or access to water, and with ragwort growing in their field. All three had overgrown hooves and were in “desperate need” of veterinary attention.

It was found that the owner had many animals in her care. The time and resources needed for each meant that the basic needs of the trio were not being met.

The charity worked with a local vet and the owner, who agreed to relinquish the donkeys into the care of the Donkey Sanctuary.

They moved to one of the charity’s holding bases, and then to its Axnoller Farm in Dorset, where grooms spent months building their trust and confidence.

In November, the three travelled to the Donkey Sanctuary’s Abbey Hey base, where they have joined the herd offering donkey-assisted activities to the local community.

“Bea is a little more reserved than her friends, Laura and Snowy but is very slowly coming out of her shell a little. Snowy and Laura are also slowly making steps into independence,” Melanie McComb, centre manager at the Donkey Sanctuary Manchester told H&H.

“When they were released into the herd, they stayed very close to each other at all times but slowly they are growing in confidence and can often be found eating or wandering with the other donkeys in the herd.

“Our donkeys are fully at liberty in their environment so when we bring clients into their space, they choose whether to interact or not.

“Bea, Snowy and Laura have already taken steps to introduce themselves to some of our clients as well as the Lord Mayor of Manchester on her recent visit. We are confident that these three beautiful girls will only grow in confidence and make amazing rehoming donkeys for a guardian home.”

Laura, Snowy and Bea will spend the next couple of years at the sanctuary, as they are prepared for rehoming.

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(Image credit: The Donkey Sanctuary)

Elf, Mistletoe, Pudding and Merry recover from ‘desperate situation’ to enjoy a happy Christmas

Becky Murray — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 21:03:04 +0000

A donkey foal rescued with two other donkeys and a pony from a “desperate situation” has made a full recovery and the group is “on the road to a happy future”.

Last December Donkey Sanctuary welfare adviser Keira Benham discovered three-month-old Elf with his mum Mistletoe, seven-year-old Pudding, and a pony named Merry, in a field in Lancaster.

“All the donkeys had long hooves and Pudding was grossly overweight, with a cresty neck and fat pockets over her spine and ribs,” said a Donkey Sanctuary spokesman.

“The animals lived with minimum shelter to shield themselves from the wind and rain. They huddled together to keep warm in a muddy corner.”

Ms Benham said when she saw the donkeys’ feet she felt “heartbroken”.

“I was so shocked at their condition and I knew they needed veterinary care as soon as possible,” she said.

“Mistletoe’s feet were curled up. She seemed reluctant to move, and she was cautious and protective of her foal. Her demeanour suggested that she must have been in so much discomfort.”

The spokesman added that Elf’s ears were “patchy and sore” from rain scald and his legs were “scabbed” with mud fever. His hooves were also overgrown.

“After unsuccessfully trying to locate the donkeys’ owner, Keira contacted our partner organisations, and enlisted the assistance of a local vet, who confirmed the animals were suffering,” said the spokesman.

The Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) and the Lancashire rural police team assisted the Donkey Sanctuary with the transportation of the groups. The donkeys were taken to a holding base where they received veterinary care and attention from grooms. Merry was taken in by HAPPA.

“Mistletoe is not nervous any more. At the time of her rescue, she refused to be handled but now comes to her grooms and nudges them for affection. She is everybody’s friend,” said Ms Benham.

“Pudding has come on very well too. Although she still has some confidence issues when grooms touch her ears, she is improving all of the time. She was completely head-shy when she was rescued, but now allows the grooms to touch most of her head and pick up her feet.”

Elf shares a paddock with his mother and Pudding at the holding base, and it is hoped they will be eligible for rehoming in the future.

“Elf is a dream. He is the sweetest donkey, and has fully recovered from his ailments. His coat is amazing and glossy, and the hair has grown back on his ears,” said Ms Benham.

A HAPPA spokesman said Merry has been on a “long rehabilitation journey” at the charity’s site in Burnley and is now on HAPPA’s rehoming scheme.

Merry (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Merry is a delight to have on the yard, she always comes to say hello to anyone passing her stable. Merry took to her new routine almost instantly, her calm and willing nature has touched us all, especially after she had been left to her own devices for so long,” said HAPPA equine manager Rachael Wallace.

“I truly feel she will make a fantastic foster pony and cannot wait to match her with a perfect foster carer.”

‘Pioneering’ adaption of lamb feeding system benefits orphan foals

Becky Murray — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 15:52:24 +0000

The Donkey Sanctuary has created a “pioneering” adoption of a suckling system to help the natural development of orphan foals.

A groom at the charity came up with the idea when week-old orphan foal Sam was relinquished to the charity and needed to be bottle-fed every three to four hours. The groom had previously seen artificial suckling systems used for lambs.

“The team caring for Sam noticed potentially concerning behaviours developing, such as rearing up and biting in a playful manner, and the decision was taken to adapt an artificial suckling system to replace hand-rearing,” said a Donkey Sanctuary spokesman, adding that the groom had previously seen such systems used for newborn lambs.

With the charity’s new feeding system Sam’s milk formula is accessible 24 hours a day, and through monitoring it was observed he suckled at a variable rate throughout the 24-hour period, replicating natural rearing behaviour.

“Sam also suckled at times without taking in milk, demonstrating that suckling behaviour is a key part of maternal nurturing,” said the spokesman.

The Donkey Sanctuary’s adapted artificial feeding system (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Ben Hart, Donkey Sanctuary senior lead in behaviour and human behaviour change, said orphan foals are one of the “greatest challenges” to equid care and welfare.

“Hand-rearing is often the only option for equine sanctuaries when an orphan arrives. However, too much inappropriate handling from humans can result in behavioural issues as the foal grows,” he said.

“Male donkeys can be extremely playful, often engaging in aggressive play well into adulthood. Foals learn a great deal about the world by biting things and interacting with them in this way. Bottle-reared foals may exhibit more of this behaviour because of incorrect handling, such as being pushed away, which the foal interprets as positive, playful attention.”

The artificial system consists of a plastic tube leading from an enclosed milk bucket to a bottle teat, which is attached to a stable door at an appropriate height. The formula is heated by a machine as it passes through the tube, on its way to the foal.

“The automatic system not only allows the foal to self-administer and potentially feed more naturally, but research also shows ad-lib feeding may also promote healthier growth and development,” said the spokesman.

“The system also allowed for 24-hour camera monitoring and the team caring for Sam observed other activities replicating the natural behaviour of foals. These included head-butting the teat, chewing or rubbing the teat and staying close by even when not feeding – all behaviours considered to be non-nutritive suckling and similar to when foals stay close to their mothers in the first five months of life.”

The spokesman said Sam has “flourished” in the charity’s care and when he was old enough to be rehomed, he was matched to one of the charity’s volunteers who helped look after him at the Donkey Sanctuary’s Paccombe Farm.

“The feeding system was adapted so successfully for Sam that the Donkey Sanctuary Ireland used it to help rear a rejected foal called Bugsy, when he came into their care. The team further adapted the system, building a structure to house the suckling equipment with space for the foal to enter and reach the teat,” said the spokesman.

Ben added that developing the system is a “great” example of how collaboration and lateral thinking can significantly improve not only the health, welfare and behavioural development of donkeys in the charity’s care, but also equines around the world who can learn from the “pioneering” work.

He said: “Developing this artificial feeding system, which mimics the natural environment, is a great example of how team collaboration, academic excellence and lateral thinking can significantly improve not only the health, welfare and behavioural development of donkeys in our care but also equines around the world who can learn from our pioneering work.”

Anyone missing Murphy? Donkey shelters at bus stop after rescue from central reservation

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 12:49:23 +0000

Passengers waiting for a bus on the A64 last Friday would have had to share the shelter with an unusual travelling companion — Murphy the donkey.

Two members of the public called North Yorkshire Police at about 7am on 1 July, after they had found the donkey grazing on the central reservation of the carriageway, near Whitwell.

The pair managed to catch him, and “encouraged” him into the bus stop, where they tied him up and called for help.

“We attended the scene and once we were happy the donkey was in no danger, we set about trying to locate his owner,” a police spokesman said..

“A few door knocks later (‘Anyone at this address missing a donkey?’) we discovered that Murphy had escaped from a field he shared with his llama and sheep friends.

“His owner came and took him safely back to his field, where he soon settled down for a rest after an eventful morning. We know he looks a bit sad in the photo but rest assured Murphy was checked over and is absolutely fine, probably just upset that his adventure had been curtailed.”

The spokesman added that Murphy was checked and had suffered no harm from his adventures.

“We’re not sure whether Murphy just fancied a tasty snack on the central reservation – they do say the grass is always greener on the other side,” he said. “Or perhaps he was considering catching a bus to Scarborough to start a new career on the beach?

“Either way, we’re very grateful to the members of the public who rescued Murphy and called us for help!”

‘A ticking time bomb’: report highlights donkey skins being sold illegally on social media

Becky Murray — Sun, 15 May 2022 18:03:34 +0000

Thousands of donkey skins are being sold illegally on unregulated websites and well-known social media platforms, a report has unveiled.

The Donkey Sanctuary report, The Global Trade in Donkey Skins: A Ticking Time Bomb, “uncovers for the first time the vast online illegal trading network sending millions of donkeys to their deaths”. Included are findings from research by a team from Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and wildlife conservation research unit, who were able to identify a “clear scientific link” between illegal wildlife trade and donkey skin trade.

A spokesman for the Donkey Sanctuary said it is estimated that more than 4.8 million donkeys are trafficked and slaughtered every year for their skins, which are used in the production of ejiao – a product used in traditional Chinese remedies.

“The donkeys suffer at every point of this process, from source to slaughter, due to the brutal and inhumane conditions that are a hallmark of this industry,” said the spokesman.

“Even the most vulnerable donkeys, including pregnant mares, young foals, and the sick and injured, are taken and traded without consideration for their welfare or their pain.”

The report found there was a “vast online network” of organised criminals offering donkey skins for sale, often alongside other illegal wildlife products including rhino horns, pangolin scales, elephant ivory and tiger hides.

“Evidence of 382 individual traders was identified on business-to-business (B2B) ecommerce sites offering donkey hides, with almost 20% of those traders also selling other wildlife products. In some extreme cases, the Donkey Sanctuary uncovered these traders were additionally trafficking narcotics, fake passports and human hair, providing further evidence of how deeply the donkey skin trade is embedded in organised crime,” said the spokesman.

Under Facebook and Instagram commerce policies, listings on their platforms may not promote “the buying or selling of animals or animal parts”. Buyers and sellers are responsible for complying with “all applicable laws and regulations” and failure to comply may result in consequences including but not limited to, removal of listings, rejection of product tags, or suspension or termination of a user’s access to the platforms.

Twitter guidelines state users may not use the service for “any unlawful purpose or in furtherance of illegal activities”, including selling, buying or facilitating transactions in illegal goods or services.

“The continuous demand from the ejiao industry has had a significant impact on donkey populations. Many donkeys slaughtered for the ejiao trade are stolen from families who rely on them for their livelihoods, with devastating consequences for their economic prospects,” said the spokesman.

“Up to 10 million communities in the developing world rely on working donkeys, and where donkeys are stolen it almost always falls to women and girls to pick up the ‘donkey work’ left behind, denying many girls the opportunity to continue their education.”

Donkey Sanctuary acting chief executive Marianne Steele said there is “no doubt” the global ejiao trade is having a “devastating impact” on the welfare of donkeys around the world.

“This new research demonstrates just how vast the online donkey skin trade has become, and how entrenched it is with criminal activity and other illegal wildlife trafficking,” she said.

Facebook and Instagram did not respond to H&H’s request for comment. H&H has contacted Twitter.

‘My boys sensed I was in distress’: donkeys raise the alarm after guardian breaks leg

Becky Murray — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 20:03:07 +0000

Two rescue donkeys have been praised for raising the alarm after their guardian broke her leg and her calls for help could not be heard.

Hampshire-based Carolyn Ballard, a former Donkey Sanctuary guardian for donkeys Martin and James, slipped in May last year when feeding the pair and her and sheep Isla.

“Martin and James were lively and always trying to get into the hay store when we turned our backs. I was taking Isla’s food into her stable, and as I turned around, both donkeys sneaked into the hay store,” said Carolyn, who stepped on a pallet, slipped and could not get up.

A Donkey Sanctuary spokesman said Carolyn’s husband Barry did not hear her calls for help and she remained stranded on the floor in “considerable pain” before a “magic moment happened”.

“As I was inching my way to the open door where James and Martin were standing, they started braying long and loud,” said Carolyn.

“I had never experienced them do that before. Martin brayed or snorted when he wanted attention, but James had only brayed twice in several years.”

The spokesman said braying is a common behaviour seen in many donkeys and is a way to communicate with other donkeys and their owners, but it is also normal for a donkey not to bray at all.

“Lying on the floor was a change in my behaviour and something the donkeys had not encountered before. The looks on their faces and their eyes open so wide made me think they were calling out, knowing that I was in distress. Their braying was so unusual that it got Barry’s attention,” said Carolyn.

“By then, I managed to manoeuver myself to the door where I shouted and waved to Barry, who realised something was wrong and came running to my rescue. Without a doubt, my darling boys sensed I was in distress and raised the alarm.”

The spokesman said Carolyn was taken to hospital and an X-ray confirmed she had fractured her fibula, but had it not been for the intervention of her donkeys, the result could have been much worse.

“The news got around to the neighbours and the farm across the road. Everyone said they heard the donkeys braying so loudly but didn’t think they were calling for help. It was so loud that even a farmer over half a mile away heard it,” said Carolyn.

Carolyn spent several weeks on crutches with her leg supported by a boot, but this did not stop her visiting Martin and James, who have recently been rehomed to a new guardian owing to a change in circumstances.

“This is a great example of how guardians really appreciate the safety net and support offered by the Donkey Sanctuary should they no longer be able to look after their donkeys due to a change in personal circumstances,” said the Donkey Sanctuary spokesman.

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