When Hanna's owners realised that they could no longer care for her, they turned to The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland for support.
Our Donkey Welfare Adviser Jane Bruce swiftly stepped in. After assessing Hanna’s needs and behaviour, she was able to identify a suitable new home, where a gelding donkey named Hector needed a companion.
After arranging for Hanna to receive treatment from the farrier and vet, Jane arranged for her to move into her new home. Hanna and Hector’s first meeting was captured here in this lovely photograph.
Hanna and Hector are now the best of friends, and their new owner is delighted.
Our welfare team are incredibly busy at this time of year. The cold weather, cost-of-living crisis and rising prices of necessities such as straw make it difficult for some donkey owners to provide for their animals. Sadly, this has resulted in many more donkeys being abandoned.
We urge owners to reach out for help, as prevention is the key to managing the donkey welfare crisis in Ireland.
Stories like Hanna and Hector's wouldn't be possible without the generosity of people like you.
Donating just €3 per month makes a huge difference and means we can continue our mission to make sure no donkey is left out in the cold this Christmas.
