Following reports about the remains of an abandoned donkey along the River Corrib in Co Galway, David Walsh and Eugene Butler from The Donkey Sanctuary's welfare team went to investigate.
Sadly, the report was true, but they also discovered an abandoned, lone donkey, wandering the marshland with no shelter to call home. The stallion donkey was terrified and David knew he would be difficult to catch.
For several weeks and during difficult weather conditions, David returned time after time with feed for the donkey, and slowly, he started to gain the animal's trust.
Working with others
Such is the severity of donkey welfare in Ireland, our sanctuary facilities have been full for some time. We are partnering with other agencies, responding to welfare emergencies. Together we are working to prevent poor welfare from escalating and finding solutions for donkeys that need new homes due to abandonment or neglect.
After weeks of trying and in collaboration with Galway Country Council and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the donkey was caught and transported away for a better life in an environment more suited to his welfare needs.
Away from the wet land he had been discovered in, the donkey's long and painful hooves were trimmed and he instantly started to move more easily. The donkey is eating well and has started to trust people again and his rehabilitation will continue. Thank you to Galway Country Council, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and Hungry Horse Outside who have all been instrumental in helping provide a better future for this donkey.
Can you help us?
We receive so many reports of donkeys abandoned in areas of land with no suitable shelter or feed. Can you donate to help us continue our vital community work?
If you can donate to help us reach donkeys in communities around Ireland, thank you for your support.
