Early last year, seven young foals came into our care. They were very timid and some were suffering from rain scald. Their coats were in varying states of disarray and matting, with one donkey needing to have her whole body clipped to ease her discomfort. The group were severely underweight, with one weighing just 51 kg.
Our grooms put them in warm blankets to soothe the foals from the damp and cold, and showed them to their freshly bedded stable. Under heat lamps, and with an ample supply of fresh food and water, the youngsters looked right at home.
Seven foals settle in
Months filled with patient care passed. Our grooms and Vet Team worked hard with the group as they settled and grew. The foals we called Asher, Crowe, Faye, Karma, Killian, Luther and Vivette grew stronger and gained weight. Each of the donkeys has become less timid thanks to the patience and understanding of their grooms. The group of seven became eight when another young abandoned donkey called Dante came into our care. He was quickly accepted by the others and settled easily into life at our sanctuary. After a while, it was time to move the young donkeys from New Arrivals to Hannigans Farm.
Not long afterwards, the seven foals and their new young friend Dante came to live here at the Open Farm in Knockardbane. Although they can still be a little nervous at times, they have started approaching the fence to greet our staff. Farm Groom Sean says: “They were nervous when they arrived at our sanctuary but now they line up at the fence every morning to meet our staff. Killian is very inquisitive and loves to follow the brush around the yard as we clean!”
Rehoming Scheme
Killian is best friends with Luther, who is a quiet donkey. In time, we hope they will enter our Rehoming Scheme along with other members of the group. Thanks to your kindness, the future of these young donkeys who were once so vulnerable is secure.
Can you help us to look after donkeys like this group today? We appreciate every donation we receive as it helps us to continue our vital work.
