Helping an owner at wits' end

Caring for two donkeys and a mule was proving difficult for an owner who reached out to us for help and advice. Ciara O’Kelly, Donkey Welfare Adviser and other members of our welfare team reassured her and put a plan in place to support the owner and improve the welfare of her animals.

The owner had recently offered a home for the two donkeys and a mule, and when she felt that looking after the animals was proving too difficult, she reached out to The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland.

The owner says: “I felt compelled to contact you following my recent experience with your wonderful organisation. I was at my wits’ end having taken on two donkeys and a wayward mule as a favour for a friend.”

Donkey Welfare Adviser, Ciara O’Kelly, and other members of our welfare team, quickly reassured the concerned owner, who was worried she might be heavily criticised.

The owner says: “Criticism can be hard to take, so I was dreading their arrival, but Ciara was amazing. She recognised my stress, could see my dilemma, but also appreciated my love and care for these animals. She immediately formulated a plan which was to commence with the rehoming of the mule.”

The plan was designed to improve the welfare of the animals as well as to give the owner the support she had been looking for. This support included trimming the donkey’s hooves and safely transporting the mule.

The owner continues: “Thank you to Eugene! He skilfully trimmed the donkeys’ hooves and his bond with the animals (particularly the mule) was a joy to behold. 

“Finally, I must commend Dave. I have seen many equine loadings over the years but this was something special. No fuss, no panic, no stress for the mule or myself. No special equipment required and no raised voices.

“With Ciara’s help, I have a plan and I am optimistic the donkeys will remain with me. Thank you with all my heart.”

Do you need support and advice?

To improve the donkey welfare crisis in Ireland, we are appealing to donkey owners to contact us for information and support accessing critical donkey welfare services such as farriery and dentistry, as well as advice on castration and other veterinary services. Our welfare team can be contacted on 022 49013. Alternatively, please use our online welfare enquiries form welfare enquiries form.

Our sincere thanks to My Lovely Horse Rescue (MLHR) who kindly offered a space for the mule. The donkey owner feels that she is able to cope with her animals now and knows that if she needs more advice, we are here to help.