New life for goat and donkey abandoned in the rain

Donkey and goat abandoned on the farm

We were asked by the Department of Agriculture to help a donkey and goat abandoned in a rural area on the border of County Roscommon and County Westmeath.

Fortunately, the land where the animals had been abandoned was owned by a farmer who already had two donkeys, and he was able to keep them on his land until we arrived.

Eva Ellis, the Donkey Welfare Adviser involved with this case, said the donkey was in “desperate need of hoof care.”

"His feet were very overgrown, and it was important that both animals received veterinary attention as soon as possible," Eva recalls. 

“After spending some time with them, they quickly felt comfortable in my presence, and the donkey in particular loved having his ears scratched.”

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Donkey abandoned with bad hooves

During the time of this case, we were experiencing cold weather and heavy rain, so we needed to move the pair to a warm, dry shelter as soon as possible.

There was no microchip on the donkey that could have helped us locate the owner, which is very often the case despite it being a legal requirement.

So as our sanctuary is full and there was no owner to contact, we partnered with an animal sanctuary where space was available for the donkey and goat.

As soon as Dave Harte, our Welfare Assistant, arrived in the donkey transporter, we were able to load both animals for their journey to safety.

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Donkey's overgrown hooves

Following their arrival, the pair were given food and water, and they were treated for external and internal parasites after receiving a health assessment. 

Despite having been well overdue for a hoof trim, the donkey appears to have suffered no long-term damage at present, but he will continue to be monitored.

While it was apparent the donkey and goat were used to each other's company, it was important to introduce the animals to their own species, allowing the gelding to form a bond with another donkey.

Both animals immediately welcomed the company of other goats and donkeys. 

Reflecting on this case, Eva feels relieved for both animals that they now have a brighter future, but is saddened that they were abandoned in the cold and wet weather. 

“It was a great pity for these social and friendly animals to be disposed of in such an abrupt way,” she says.

“It was especially sad because it was in the middle of a cold and wet spell.”

“They had no access to shelter, and they were clearly struggling, but it is all thanks to the support we receive that we were able to rescue them that day.”

Eva will be visiting again in the near future, providing support for dental care and vaccinations. With their great personalities, we hope that both animals will soon be rehomed.