How we reach the donkeys that need us the most
Since we opened our gates in 1987, The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland has loved and cared for over 5,600 neglected and abandoned donkeys from across Ireland.
Every donkey taken into our sanctuary is guaranteed a life of loving care. For many it is the first time in their lives that they have felt loving hands and heard quiet voices. Great care is given to ensuring that each donkey has individual attention.
Today we have over 1,600 donkeys and mules in our care. Around 400 of these donkeys reside in private Guardian homes throughout the country as part of our Rehoming Scheme and the remainder of the donkeys are based at our four farms in the Liscarroll area.
Open Farm
Knockardbane Farm is open to visitors and it is home to over 130 donkeys and mules. The farm is nestled in the beautiful rolling hillsides, outside Liscarroll village.
Rescues and rehoming
We are experiencing a higher demand for our services in the community due to growing financial pressures. Betty and Bubbles are just two of the many donkeys who have benefitted from our support.
Our welfare advisers cover hundreds of kilometres to provide care for donkeys in need, and your support makes this possible.
After receiving a call about a pair of neglected donkeys, we worked with the ISPCA and My Lovely Horse Rescue to find them a warm and safe shelter.
Sanctuary care
A loving donkey we rescued from Tallow Horse Fair in 2019 continues to flourish three years on in our care at Flemming's Farm.
A mare relinquished into our care along with three other donkeys when their owner was unable to care for the large group has given birth to a foal.
Valentine has settled in well since arriving at our sanctuary after being given away for free online and living in a small back garden.
Three mares with life-threatening tumours and two foals are now safe in our care after being discovered wandering an area of land in Kenmare.
Lorcan, one of our most popular adoption donkeys, has retired from our Adopt a Donkey scheme. We wish him many years of retirement.
Find out more
Our vision and mission drive us to make meaningful impacts every day, transforming lives by delivering expert care.
Discover how we have a direct impact on the welfare and care of over 2,000 donkeys in Ireland.
Read our annual reports into The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland's finances.
