It's an interesting phrase and is usually taken to mean "a really long time". In the case of a lot of our donkeys it is quite literally the description of how long they will be with us! When we undertake to care for a donkey we know that it could be with us for decades so we are honourbound to make sure we have the funds and the expertise to make good our pledge to them.

Trixie is a prime example of the longevity of some donkeys. She is 30 years old and was relinquished to the Sanctuary from Bantry back in January 1989. She is a lovely, quiet donkey and has very good health which has occasionally been interrupted by some isolated feet problems over the years. She has a long list of food favourites which bring her much pleasure on special days - carrots, apples, bread, polo mints, ginger nut biscuits and of course fuss and affection which she gets big doses of! Trixie is very closely bonded with her friend Becky.

Becky is 26 years old and they live in one of the groups at Hannigan's Farm with other donkeys who require special feeding. Becky arrived about 10 months after Trixie and was a really boisterous donkey. She gradually quietened down and is quite lovely now. She also enjoys good health and has similar likes to Trixie but she is also very fond of being groomed. Unfortunately she also has strong feelings about what she doesn’t like - Vets and Farriers!