Chaplin is a brown and white Standard pinto donkey who we estimate was born in 1995. With one brown ear and one white ear, he is easily distinguished out in the pasture. Chaplin came to The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada in the fall of 2010 after being impounded by the Guelph Humane Society. At the time he was impounded, his feet were so overgrown that he had difficulty walking, and he was being kept in sub-standard conditions. The owner was subsequently charged with 2 counts under the Ontario Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and was convicted as charged.
Since coming to the DSC’s main farm, Chaplin has received a great deal of attention from our staff, volunteers, and especially the farrier. He will require regular hoof trims to ensure that his hooves are properly balanced, and to allow his muscles, tendons and ligaments to readjust to the new correct angles of his feet. When he first arrived, Chaplin was quite nervous about having his feet picked up, and even touching his lower legs required an experienced handler. Consistent training from our staff will help him learn that having his feet handled is not a frightening experience, and we are certain he will become more and more comfortable during his sessions with our farrier.
Chaplin is enjoying his new life with the other donkeys in the main herd, and will remain under the protection and care of The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada for the remainder of his life. Thank you for helping us with his costs of care; on your behalf we will aim to provide him with the best possible care during the forthcoming year.