In 2006, a white Standard jennet and her young son were admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA. At that time, our veterinarian estimated that the mother was 7 years of age. (An equine’s age can be determined by examination of the growth and condition of the teeth.)
Before being brought to the DSC, the donkey and her son lived on a farm in Eastern Ontario. The farm had to be sold and, upon request, they were admitted for lifelong care to the Sanctuary. Upon admission, it was determined that the jennet was in the last stages of a pregnancy. She was named, Anu, by the Sanctuary staff and her son was given the name, Loki.
Anu’s first weeks at the Sanctuary passed quietly
Anu’s first weeks at the Sanctuary Farm passed quietly until August 2nd, when she gave birth to an all-white male foal who was given the name, Odin. As is customary among equines, Anu wanted to be by herself during the birth. In the early hours of the morning, when Sanctuary staff came to check on the jennet, they found her with her foal standing at her side, all washed and nursing contentedly.
Anu is a curious, tentative donkey. When humans approach her, she is most comfortable when they do so quietly and not with quick movements. She is an attentive parent to Odin and he is her first concern. Like any donkey that is admitted to the DSC, Anu will be under the Sanctuary’s care for the duration of her life.