Introducing Snowdrop

Snowdrop is the latest donkey to join our adoption donkeys. With his bright white coat and sweet nature, he’s come a long way since he was rescued five years ago.   

Snowdrop arrived at our sanctuary in December 2018 when he was only five months old, and it was clear to see the suffering he had endured. When Donkey Welfare Adviser Jane Bruce was called to Co. Monaghan, she found Snowdrop and his mother, Snowflake, living with no shelter, even though it was wet and bitterly cold.  

Snowdrop had overgrown hooves and rain scald, which occurs when the skin and hair are wet for long periods of time. His mother, Snowflake, also had chronic laminitis and was struggling to cope with her boisterous son. 

Getting the care they need

Both donkeys were treated by the vet and farrier and moved to our New Arrivals unit. Jane also worked with their owner to help prevent any further unplanned breeding. Fortunately, both donkeys recovered well.

“Snowdrop’s story is a true testament to the resilience of donkeys and the incredible transformation that can happen with the right care and support,” said Cathy Griffin, Head of Welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary. 

“We are thrilled to introduce him as our newest adoption donkey. This allows our supporters to contribute to his ongoing care, and the welfare of other donkeys.”

Now, five years after he was abandoned, Snowdrop has grown into a confident, energetic, and exceedingly sociable donkey. He has made lots of friends since moving to our Open Farm in Cork, and he loves meeting new people. 

Snowflake has also been given the care she needs. She now lives with a group of donkeys with laminitis and always has soft bedding and an easy walk to the fields. Our farm team also make sure she stays at an ideal weight to help prevent a flare-up of her laminitis. She has been doing well since she moved to her new group and likes to mingle with all the other donkeys. 

Adopt Snowdrop this Christmas

​By choosing to adopt Snowdrop, you are directly contributing to his ongoing care and well-being, as well as supporting the welfare of countless other donkeys who have been neglected or abandoned. Your adoption helps us to keep more donkeys warm this Christmas.