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MEET OUR DONKEYS
MEET OUR DONKEYS |
ABBEY |
| Abigail, or Abbey to her friends, is a brown
and white Pinto donkey, born in Southern Ontario in 1999. By the time she
was a year and a half old, she was pregnant. This, of course, is much too
young for a jenny to be in foal but Abbey was fortunate and gave birth without
complications. (Her daughter, Rebecca, is at the DSC as well.) Thereafter,
the two donkeys lived together and were inseparable. In 2007, however, Abbey's
caretakers found that they were unable to continue looking after their donkeys
and so Abbey was admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA for lifelong
care.
After her arrival, Abbey settled in very well at the DSC Farm. On Open days
her daughter and she like to greet visitors. These two donkeys are extremely
gentle and friendly and will sit for long periods beside a visitor’s
bench, all the while enjoying the pats of attention. |
AMIGO |
|
Born in 1996, Amigo is a lively,
dark-brown, Standard donkey. He lived on a farm along with several horses
before being admitted for lifelong care to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA
in 1998.
Although his caretakers had been attentive to Amigo, they had not anticipated
the differences in social organization between donkeys and horses. The horses
had formed their own hierarchical group and, in the process, they had ostracized
Amigo. In turn, he did not cope well with such a solitary situation and
his behaviour became unpredictable. His caretakers contacted the DSC to
ask for advice but they were unwilling to take in another donkey and a companion
for Amigo. Instead, they requested that he be admitted to the Sanctuary.
Amigo is a very curious equine and he is most content living amongst the
main herd at the DSC Farm. He is a very curious creature and he relishes
the attention given to him by Sanctuary staff and volunteers. On Open Days,
Amigo can often be found at the edge of the parking lot, leaning over the
fence and attending to the arrival of volunteers |
ANGUS |
|
Angus is a dun-coloured, Standard donkey,
who was born in British Columbia in 1993. He lived for 15 years on a small
farm outside Vancouver where he was in the company of several horses. He
was given very good care over the years and he lived quietly. In 2007, however,
his behaviour started to change \and be unpredictable. In particular, he
became very uncomfortable when attempts were made to pick out his hooves
or during farrier visits. The situation deteriorated to the point that it
became necessary to sedate him in order to carry out any hoof- trimming.
After several such incidents, his owner concluded that Angus would have
to be moved to a setting where he could receive specialist care. Subsequently,
she contacted The DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA and requested that her donkey
be admitted.
In 2008, space became available at the Sanctuary Farm for this troubled
donkey and so his owner arranged for him to be trailered across Canada to
his new lifelong home.
Angus settled in gradually in his new environment. He is by nature a solitary
creature and he has little interest in the main herd at the Farm. Like Early
Grey, another donkey whom he resembles, Angus marches to his own tune and
he much prefers to live in the barnyard in the company of the Sanctuary's
oldest residents. Our skilled staff find that handling his feet is not a
great problem although Angus will not allow volunteers to pick them out.
He is a donkey who definitely knows what he wants at all times. |
ANU |
|
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 had been abandoned
on a farm in Eastern Ontario. When a neighbour observed that the donkeys
had been left in the field to fend for themselves, he started to bring water
to them each day. A few weeks later a visiting relative became concerned
about the donkeys’ future and so they were moved to the relative’s
farm. In turn, a request was made to the DSC that the donkeys be taken into
care and, upon admission, it was determined that the jennet was in the last
stages of a pregnancy She was named Anu,by Sanctuary staff and he son was
given the name, Loki.
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. |
APOLLO |
|
Apollo, born in 2000, is a large, gray-brown
Standard donkey.
Before being admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in 2006, Apollo
lived on a farm in Southern Ontario.
Initially, he had been acquired to live with and protect cattle. His caretaker
did not know that a donkey has to bond with another animal before it will
be protective of it. In this case, and as is usually the case, the donkey
had no interest in the cattle and did not want to have anything to do with
them. When his caretaker responded by physically abusing the donkey, as
well as refusing to go to the expense of having his hooves trimmed, the
SPCA was called in to investigate. Soon thereafter the donkey was relinquished
and the DSC was requested to take him into care.
At first, Apollo was very shy and hesitant around staff and volunteers.
He had to learn to trust humans. Gradually, over many months and with consistent,
gentle care, Apollo began to relax when he was being groomed or examined.
As the memories of the abusive treatment have faded, Apollo has come to
accept human attention. Additionally, he is always content to graze with
the other donkeys in the Sanctuary’s extensive fields alongside his
constant companion, Loki. |
BOBBY |
|
In 1992 Bobby, a dark brown Standard donkey,
was born on a farm in Southern Ontario. He lived there until his caretakers
divorced in 1998 and it became necessary to sell the farm.
When Bobby was brought to the Sanctuary, he was extremely wary of human
attention. When more information was made available to us about his experiences
up to that time, we understood why he was so nervous. Unfortunately, those
who had handled Bobby in his early years, were of the mind that he was a
dumb creature whose intention it was to kick out whenever his hooves had
to be trimmed. As a result, he would be tied to the ground during these
sessions and there developed a pattern wherein he would become extremely
anxious whenever humans approached him.
During the time that Bobby has lived on the Sanctuary Farm, his attitude
towards people has undergone a positive change. He has always received gentle,
consistent treatment at the hands of the DSC farrier and so Booby has leaned
that there is nothing to fear at these times.
In spite of these positive developments, Bobby continues to require specialist
care. He is content to roam the fields with the donkeys in the main herd
but he always remains somewhat apart from them. With regard to Sanctuary
visitors, Bobby is most content to lean over a fence and receive attention.
The barrier provides him with an element of protection, something he will
always need |
BOB RAY |
 |
Bob Ray was born in Southern Ontario in 1984.
He is a dark brown, Standard donkey with an easy-going disposition.
Bob Ray was brought to the Sanctuary in 2001 and over the following year,
we got to know him well. He thrived on a lot of attention and so, when just
the right family applied to become a DSC Foster Farm, Bob Ray was placed
there. He lived there for many years and it was only because the demands
of work compelled the family to move away that he was brought back to the
DSC Farm.
In 2007, while still at the Foster Farm, Bob Ray was selected to take part
in 8 performances of a summer production of the Canadian Opera Company.
He was ‘a natural’ on the stage and much praised by both audience
and members of the cast!
After his return to the DSC Farm, Bob Ray settled back into the routine
in record time. Although he is especially content to roam the fields with
his gelding pals, he continues to thrive on attention from staff, volunteers
and visitors.
Thank you for helping us to care for Bob Ray during the forthcoming year.
On your behalf, we will aim at all times to give him the best, most suitable
treatment.
|
BOLIVAR |
|
Born in 1989, Bolivar is a handsome Standard
pinto donkey.
During the years before he was brought to the Sanctuary, Bolivar was the
stud on a donkey breeding farm. Eventually, due to the owner’s illness,
the farm had to be sold and Bolivar, along with 11 other donkeys, was slated
to be taken to an equine auction.
When Sandra Pady, who lived nearby, was told of the probable fate of these
animals (ie. that they would be sold to the slaughterhouse representative
if no other interested buyer was in attendance at the time of the auction),
she arranged to have them brought to her farm. Subsequently, other donkeys
in need were taken in and, within a year (1992), the Sanctuary was established
as a not for profit charity.
Since no animals are bought, sold or bred at the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA,
jack stallions like Bolivar are gelded after their admission. As a result,
all of the equines at the Farm are able to live together in herds and to
graze around the fields in the small groups that they prefer.
Bolivar is a very gentle creature and he can be easily frightened. On Open
Days, he prefers to greet visitors over the fence, rather than mingling
with them in the barnyard. |
BUDDY |
 |
Buddy is a gray-brown Standard donkey who
was born in 1991. He is a very stocky equine with a big chest and thick
legs. One need never be nervous around Buddy, however, since he is easy
to get on with at all times.
Buddy lived for many years on a farm in Southern Ontario along with a herd
of goats and two other donkeys, Daisy and Sunshine. Eventually, however,
the goats were sold and the family no longer had the time to care for the
donkeys. The people knew that the animals were being neglected and that
it would be much better for them if they could be moved to the DSC for lifelong
care. They were taken in to the Sanctuary in November, 2008.
Today, Buddy lives amongst the main herd at the Sanctuary Farm. He is content
in this environment but continues, nevertheless, to thrive on human attention.
|
BUFFY |
|
Buffy is a light coloured, gray-brown Standard
donkey who was born in 1980. During the years before she was brought to
the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA, Buffy lived on a donkey-breeding farm. Eventually,
the farm had to be sold and Buffy, along with 11 other donkeys, were slated
to be taken to an equine auction.
When Sandra Pady, who lived nearby, was told of the probable fate of these
animals (ie. that they would be sold to the slaughterhouse representative
if no other interested buyer was in attendance at the time of the auction),
she arranged to have them brought to her farm. They arrived on August 28,
2001. Subsequently, other donkeys in need were taken in and, within a year
the Sanctuary was established as a not for profit charity.
Buffy is a reserved donkey, often hesitant around people. At first, she
preferred only the company of the other donkeys in the main herd. Then one
day a regular Sanctuary volunteer began to take a special interest in Buffy.
Several times a week the volunteer would come to the Sanctuary Farm, stand
close to the shy donkey and talk quietly to her. Gradually, Buffy began
to relax and, eventually, she became able to stand calmly to be patted and
brushed or to have her hooves trimmed by a farrier.
Buffy is an important part of the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA. She is a reminder
to us all that positive, gentle treatment of animals always brings the best
results. |
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CARGO |
|
Cargo is a medium-brown Standard donkey, admitted
for lifelong care to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in May, 2003. He has
a white area along is nose and his left ear is permanently floppy.
This energetic, friendly donkey was one and a half years old at the time
of his admission. Little was known of his background except that he had
been abandoned in poor condition at an equine auction. After two days in
the pen, a visitor to the auction noticed him and persuaded the auctioneer
to give the little creature over to her care. Unfortunately, she had not
the facilities to care for Cargo and so she appealed to the DSC.
Upon his arrival at the Sanctuary Farm, it was evident that Cargo had received
very little attention during his short life. He responded immediately, however,
to the care of DSC staff and volunteers and he quickly became comfortable
around students and visitors to the farm.
Given his outgoing, sociable nature, Cargo is a popular member of the family
of residents at the Sanctuary Farm. He brings much pleasure to the people
with whom he comes in contact and it is evident that he is extremely content
as he roams the fields, grazing and frolicking with his equine friends. |
COCOA |
|
Cocoa is a beautiful, dark brown, very tall
Standard donkey, born in 1996. He has a lively, curious personality and
he is very comfortable in human company.
Cocoa was raised in North Carolina and lived for many years on a small farm
where he was given the best of care. Then one day, as can happen in our
contemporary society, the family unit broke apart and the farm had to be
sold. Cocoa was put into a boarding stable where he lived in the company
of many horses. The woman who had raised Cocoa visited him often in this
new situation and it was not long before she realized that the standard
of care at the stable was unsatisfactory. As a donkey, Cocoa had been put
at the bottom of the pecking order and he was always alone. She moved him
to another setting but found that it too had an atmosphere of neglect. This
pattern was to repeat itself several times more and throughout all of this,
a week never passed without one or two visits by the woman to her donkey
friend. Finally, when a stable was located where she considered that Cocoa
was receiving appropriate care, it was at such a distance from her home
that she had to pass several hours in the car on the days that she visited
her donkey.
She continued to seek a better solution and then, quite unexpectedly, she
became aware of the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA. When she telephoned us her
questions were many but by the conversation’s end, she had decided
to make the two-day drive to come up and see the Sanctuary Farm. Soon after
her arrival, she asked if there might be space for Cocoa and, fortunately,
there was. In early Fall, she accompanied the trailer that brought her donkey
to his new, and permanent, home. The DSC exists for many, many reasons and
in this case, we are grateful that we can be here for donkeys like Cocoa
and their caretakers who care so much. |
CHICLET |
|
Chiclet is a white Standard donkey born in
1999 and rescued
in early spring 2000 by a caring supporter of the DSC. Until the time of
his rescue, Chiclet was living alone is a field on a farm outside Kingston,
Ontario.
When Chiclet was admitted to the Sanctuary Farm, his hooves were so overgrown
that he hobbled slowly whenever he tried to walk. It was evident that his
hooves had never been trimmed. His body was covered with ticks, there were
patches of sunburn all over his face, and the tips of his ears had broken
off, probably due to frostbite.
From the moment of his arrival at the DSC, Chiclet was given specialist
care. His coat was shaved, the ticks were removed from his body, his hooves
received an urgently-needed trim, zinc oxide was applied to the patches
of sunburn on his face and body, and his ears were cleaned and medicated.
With each passing day, Chiclet’s health improved. Once his hooves
were trimmed, his gait stabilized. The patches of sunburn healed and his
coat regrew. In time, he was running around the barnyard, curious about
the other donkeys whose behaviour he began to imitate.
In particular, Chiclet befriended Paco, a miniature donkey with a deformed
jaw. At first Paco was impatient with Chiclet but, as the weeks passed,
Paco became accustomed to having a white ‘shadow’ always at
his side. Chiclet is a gentle, fun-loving donkey who revels in the attention
that he receives from staff and visitors. |
CHULLO |
|
Until now, biographies of donkeys at the DONKEY
SANCTUARY OF CANADA have concerned only one animal at a time. We are making
an exception in this case, however, because Pablo and Chullo are inseparable.
We estimate that they were born in 2002 and, although very different in
appearance: Pablo is white and Chullo is spotted brown and white, these
two Standard donkeys are always in one another’s company. They roam
the fields together, grazing side by side or they can often be found standing
next to one another at rest in the barn.
Like too many animals, Pablo and Chullo had been moved around several times.
We do not know much about their early years but 18 months prior to their
arrival at the DSC in late 2006, they had been spotted at an equine auction
in Michigan where they were slated to go to slaughter. In turn, and due
to the efforts of a local rescue group, the two donkeys were saved from
that dismal fate. Eventually, they were adopted by a family from Ontario.
Unfortunately, however, this new situation was not to be long-term. The
family had meant to care for the animals on a permanent basis but then found
themselves unable to do so. In desperation, they called the DSC to ask for
help and soon thereafter, Pablo and Chullo were admitted. They will be under
the care of the Sanctuary for the rest of their natural lives.
Pablo’s and Chullo’s experiences are not unique. So long as
we humans choose not to assume responsibility for animals’ entire,
natural lives, we will create ever-repeating situations wherein the creatures
involved too-often become lost in the shuffle. There are too many who are
not so fortunate as Pablo and Chullo; too many are sacrificed to the slaughter
houses when there is really no need.
From our vantage point here at the DSC, we consider that much more attention
has to be paid to the planning process. To take on the care of another creature
is, indeed, “a very big deal”, and it should never be done lightly.
Before we breed more animals we have to stop, look around, and assess the
need for such events. Yes, kittens, puppies, foals and the like are adorable,
but they grow up very quickly and life spans range from one to several decades.
Being responsible stewards of our world requires that we adopt a longer
view and taking care means that we ensure a positive fate for those who
cannot help themselves. |
DANNY |
|
Danny is a dappled, brown and white Standard
donkey who was born in 1985. Before being admitted to the DSC in 1994, he
lived for many years with a herd of cattle on a farm in Southern Ontario.
Since he was with the cattle all the time and being fed the same diet, Danny
was significantly overweight.
When the owners of the farm decided to sell and move to the Maritimes, Danny
was slated to go to auction. Fortunately, though, a neighbour who had enjoyed
seeing Danny in the fields, and who often stopped the car to pat the little
donkey, enquired about Danny’s future. When the neighbour learned
that, due to his poor condition, Danny would probably be sold to a slaughterhouse
representative, it was decided that the donkey deserved a better fate. The
neighbour purchased him and in turn contacted the DSC to request that Danny
be taken in.
Danny is one of the most agreeable and gentle donkeys living at the Sanctuary
Farm. He enjoys the company of the donkeys in the main herd and, at the
same time, he is wonderfully gentle with our visitors. Helia, a long time
DSC volunteers, is particularly fond of Danny and he thrives under the care
that she gives to him. |
DANNY BOY |
|
There are ten mules and hinnies living at
the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm, and Danny Boy is the gentlest. This
all white Standard mule was brought to the DSC in 1998 and, as is so often
the case with the donkeys and mules that we admit, there was no information
available about his background. From the condition of his teeth, we estimate
that Danny Boy was born in 1987.
|
DAISY AND SUNSHINE |
 |
Daisy and Sunshine are mother and daughter,
and they are never apart. Daisy was born in 1994 and she gave birth to Sunshine
in 2002. Both are large Standard donkeys with medium dark brown fur. They
have white bellies and their faces are flecked with white. Their large ears
are curled at the tips.
Both donkeys lived for many years on a farm in Southern Ontario along with
a herd of goats and another donkey, Buddy. Eventually, however, the goats
were sold and the family no longer had the time to care for the donkeys.
When several months had passed, the people knew that the animals were being
neglected and that it would be much better for them if they could be moved
to the DSC for lifelong care. They were taken in to the Sanctuary in November,
2008.
Today, Daisy and Sunshine live amongst the main herd at the Sanctuary Farm.
They go everywhere together, whether it is to graze in a field, snooze in
the barn, or lean over a fence, ever curious and patient.
Daisy and Sunshine are special, gentle creatures and we thank you for helping
The DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA with the costs of their care during the next
year. On your behalf, we will aim at all times to give them the best possible
treatment. |
DOLLY |
|
Dolly was born in 1988 and she was taken in
by the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in 2000. She is a gray-brown Standard
donkey with a distinctive black cross on her back. Her companion, Dusty
Rose, was admitted at the same time. Both donkeys had lived with a couple
in Eastern Ontario for many years but, when the time came to retire, they
decided to move to British Columbia. They could not take the donkeys with
them and so they appealed to the DSC to help them out.
Although Dolly and Dusty Rose had been given very good care by their former
caretakers, Dusty Rose had long been plagued with laminitis, a recurring
hoof affliction. Much special care was required before she could move in
with the main herd of donkeys at the Sanctuary. Throughout this period and,
indeed, ever since, Dolly has been at her side.
Dolly’s attachment to Dusty Rose is significant. She prefers to be
by Dusty’s side at all times, whether they are roaming the fields
or being groomed by volunteers. Fortunately they are under the care of the
Sanctuary they will always remain together.
At first, Dolly was hesitant around Sanctuary staff and volunteers. However,
the consistent, gentle treatment that she receives has made a great difference
to her level of contentment. |
DONKESHOEN |
|
Donkeschoen is a dappled-gray, large Standard
donkey who was born in 1985. Her name is a play on words in the German language:
where ‘danke schoen’ means, ‘thank you very much’,
and ‘donke schoen’ means, ‘ pretty donkey’.
Before being brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA, Donkeschoen lived
on a farm in Quebec where she received excellent care. Unfortunately, however,
the family’s circumstances changed and it became necessary to find
a new home for her. When her caretaker learned of the work of the DSC through
a magazine article, she requested that Donkeschoen be admitted.
Since her arrival in 1997, Donkeschoen has been a positive, much-enjoyed
member of the DSC herd. When she is on the ‘people’ side of
the barn, though, waiting to be groomed or attended to by the farrier, she
has to be monitored. If left to her own devices, Donkeschoen will move the
sliding bars on some of the gates, thereby welcoming all of her other companions
to the barnyard!
On Open Days, Donkeschoen is almost always found hanging over a fence, greeting
visitors. Her constant companion, Lady, another Standard donkey, is always
by her side. |
DUSTY ROSE |
|
Dusty Rose is a dappled red roan standard
donkey who was brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in late summer,
2000. She was born in 1980. Her devoted companion, Dolly, another donkey,
was admitted at the same time. Both had lived on a farm in Eastern Ontario
for many years but, when their caretakers decided to retire to British Columbia,
they could not take the donkeys with them and so they appealed to the DSC
for help.
Although Dusty Rose had been given very good care over the years, she was
not in good health at the time of her admission. Recurring laminitis prevented
her from standing most of the time, as equines are wont to do, and, as a
result, there were large open sores on her sides and on a hind leg. In addition,
abscesses were found in her hooves. They were treated and x-rays of her
feet were taken. As a result of blood tests, anemia was discovered, which
was treated with a tonic.
Over a period of many weeks, Dusty Rose’s condition improved and she
began to stand for longer periods of time. As the days passed the sores
healed gradually and, throughout the period of recuperation, Dolly was seldom
away from her side.
During the winter months, Dusty Rose’s coat is very long and protective
of her body. With the arrival of warm weather, in order to improve circulation
and impeded the development of sores, her coat is shorn. Her body gleams
in the sunlight as she moves around the fields, grazing with the here. |
EARL GRAY |
|
Earl Gray is a handsome, gray-brown Standard
donkey who was born in 1985. He was admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF
CANADA late in 1995 after the intervention of three supporters of the DSC
at an equine auction in Central Ontario.
When first seen by these caring people, this desperate donkey was jammed
into a pen, too small for his size, making it impossible for him to turn
around. His hooves had been so grossly trimmed that he had difficulty remaining
upright. When his turn came to be auctioned, the donkey was dragged into
the ring, barely able to stand. As the bidding began, no one expressed interest
in the swaying creature except those dealers who sold to the slaughterhouses.
Unable to imagine such a fate for the donkey, the DSC supporters pooled
their money, started to bid and, when the sale was completed, the donkey
was theirs.
But the night was long from being over. The people contacted the DSC and
requested that the donkey be admitted immediately since the barn where the
auction had been held was extremely drafty and cold, and the donkey was
in much pain.
Six hours later, just after sunup, after the hundreds of kilometers required
to fetch a trailer, pick up the donkey and drive him to the DSC Farm, Earl
Gray (as he was named by his rescuers) was helped into a stall. That morning
the therapeutic hoof work began.
Today, Earl is content with his life at the DSC. He is a unique donkey,
one who ‘marches to his own tune’ and who prefers to be solitary.
At the same time, he is unfailingly gentle with people and a great favourite
with staff, volunteers and visitors. |
ED |
|
Ed is a brown and white spotted Standard
donkey who was born in 1984 in West Virginia. For much of his life he was
neglected and ill-fed. Day after day he hobbled around on hooves that were
seldom trimmed and often abscessed. One day, when he was 12 years old, things
changed for Ed. A caring woman happened to visit the farm where he lived
and she persuaded the owner that Ed should be sold to her. Months passed
and under the woman’s positive care, Ed’s condition improved
gradually. Eventually he was able to live amongst the other donkeys that
were resident at the farm.
Then one day, after several years of caring for Ed, the woman suffered some
financial setbacks and she realized that she would have to find another
home for him. Although Ed was fully recovered, the woman knew that he would
be susceptible to a recurrence of his earlier hoof problems if he did not
receive knowledgeable care. Fortunately, she had read about The Donkey Sanctuary
of Canada in The Brayer, the publication of the American Donkey and Mule
Society, and so she contacted the DSC office soon thereafter.
As a result, Ed and another donkey, Little Britches, were trailered to the
Sanctuary Farm by the woman in September 1999. It was a twelve hour drive,
made over two days, and everyone arrived in excellent condition.
Nowadays, Ed lives amongst the herd at the Sanctuary Farm. He is a very
active donkey, always alert to changes in the pastures. At the same time,
Ed is very gentle when he is around humans. |
FRANCO |
|
Franco is a Standard donkey, brown and white
in colour, who was admitted to the DSC in 1996. Although no background information
was available at the time, our veterinarian estimated that he had been born
in 1993.
Franco and a companion donkey, Johnny, had been advertised for sale when
the notice was read by supporters of the DSC. They telephoned about the
ad and, as a result of the ensuing conversation, they became concerned about
the donkeys’ futures. Their owner had purchased them in the hope of
making a quick profit on resale, however, since that had yet to occur, he
was inclined to sell them to a slaughterhouse.
Upon learning that, the caring people went to see the donkeys. They were
appalled at their condition and at the fact that so little consideration
was being given to their lives. Thereafter, when they had confirmed that
the DSC would give Franco and Johnny (as they named them) a lifelong home,
the donkeys were purchased and moved immediately to the Sanctuary Farm.
Since both donkeys were jack stallions, they were gelded and kept apart
from the main Sanctuary herd after their arrival. Thereafter, several weeks
later, when their testosterone levels had subsided, the donkeys were moved
in with their new equine companions.
During the years that he has lived at the Sanctuary Farm, Franco has relaxed
considerably with people. In spite of that fact, however, he is most content
to mingle with the main herd and roam the fields with his equine companions. |
GINGER |
|
Ginger is a dark-brown, small mule who was
admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm in late 2006. At the time
she was 5 years old and she had lived for 18 months in a petting zoo in
Eastern Ontario. When the farrier was brought in to trim her hooves, he
hobbled her, which made her panic. She was then forced to the ground and
restrained further. The experience filled her with terror and, from that
point, she refused to allow anyone to touch her. Her hooves were left to
grow and eventually they became so long that they turned up at the ends.
When the owner of the petting zoo realized that the little mule would have
to be tranquilized in order to have her hooves trimmed, he contacted the
local SPCA because he did not want to spend the necessary amount for such
a procedure. In turn he was referred to the DSC and he requested that she
be admitted to the Sanctuary.
Over the years of our work with the donkeys and mules we have come to realize
that they can sense much more about the nature of their environment than
we assume. When the Sanctuary’s Animal Caretaker went to pick up the
little mule, the owner of the petting zoo anticipated that she would have
to be tied and restrained and dragged on to the trailer. Instead, she was
approached quietly and patiently and, as soon as the lead was put onto her
halter, she trotted into the trailer.
Shortly after her arrival at the Sanctuary Farm, the little mule, who was
named Ginger, was examined and then our farrier was called to begin treatment
on her hooves. His quiet and gentle technique was effective. Gradually,
she calmed down enough to undergo the initial trimming.
Nowadays, Ginger lives amongst the small herd of mules at the Sanctuary.
Although she is small, she does not allow the larger mules to push her around.
She is a spirited, lively little mule. |
GORDON |
|
Gordon is a dappled gray, large Standard donkey
with beautiful, shapely ears. He had dwelt for many, many years alone with
a horse companion and we understand that their life was quiet, without dramatic
incident. Then, one day, as happens to all creatures, unexpected change
occurred. It had become necessary for their caretaker to move and she concluded
that it would be best for Gordon if he were to be brought to THE DONKEY
SANCTUARY OF CANADA.
Looking back, we can see that it is in situations like this one that the
Sanctuary provides an all-important service. We could accommodate Gordon
and in mid-2005 he was moved to the DSC Farm. That process, however, was
only the beginning. Animals cannot speak; they are unable to tell us how
anxious they become whenever there is a change in their environment. Gordon
was no exception. Although he was in good physical health, there was a shyness
and reluctance that surrounded him like an aura. He was confused by the
many new companions in his life and he coped with that by standing alone,
preferring to view all of the activity from afar. Although he was gentle,
his inclination, when approached, was to move away.
As the weeks passed by, and through consistent, gentle care, Gordon began
to relax. In human society, there is a tendency to assume that the other
animals can experience great upheaval with little affect to their behaviour
or sense of contentment. At the DSC we witness, on a daily basis, that this
is not the case. Like humans the other animals need time, a period of adjustment,
whenever their world is irrevocably changed.
Nowadays Gordon, who was born in 1975, is living contentedly at the Sanctuary
Farm. Due to his considerable age, he prefers to live quietly in the barnyard
amongst his older companions. In that way, as well, he can be closer to
Kyle, the DSC Animal Caretaker, whose attention he greatly enjoys. |
GYPSY |
|
Gypsy is a gray-brown, Standard donkey who
was born in British Columbia in 1992. Until her admission to the DONKEY
SANCTUARY OF CANADA, Gypsy had lived on a small horse farm, part of the
time in the company of her sister, Juliet. The two donkeys were owned by
different people and, after her divorce, Juliet’s owner requested
that she be taken in by the DSC. In early Spring 2007, Juliet was moved
to Ontario to the Sanctuary Farm.
Soon thereafter, Juliet’s caretaker was able to persuade Gypsy’s
owner that it would be better for both donkeys if they could live together.
When Juliet’s caretaker offered to pay for the trailering costs, permission
was given for Gypsy to be reunited with her sister.
Gypsy is a very gentle, agreeable donkey and she has become quite a favourite
with DSC volunteers. Juliet and she are often seen together in the fields
and both are very content in their new life. |
HERSHEY |
|
Hershey is a dark brown, Standard donkey,
born in 2000. He was admitted to The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada in summer
2004.
Before he was brought to the Sanctuary Farm, Hershey lived on a horse farm
in Southern Ontario. Unfortunately, in his first few weeks of life, Hershey
was taken away from his mother. He was bottle-fed and, in turn, he bonded
with his human caretakers, who did not realize that the excessive attention
they were showering on him could become a liability. As months passed, however,
Hershey became harder and harder to handle, and he did not relate to the
other animals on the farm. Instead, he wanted always to be with his people.
When Hershey arrived at the DSC, he was uncomfortable and
fearful around the herd. He had never had the opportunity to learn behaviour
from another donkey. Instead, he preferred to stand alone by the fence and
he run away from his equine companions.
Hershey’s rehabilitation has been gradual and it is ongoing. The consistent,
firm, gentle treatment that he receives from DSC Staff and Volunteers is
making a positive different. Nevertheless, when he is around people, he
can be pushy and forceful in his attempt to seek attention. For this reason,
Hershey goes to the Halfway Haven shelter on Open Days and during class
visits, from where he can see the visitors but he does not come into direct
contact with them. |
HUMMER |
|
Hummer is a black Standard mule who was born
in 1994
He was admitted to The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada in late 2003.
Over the years, this large equine had lived in many places, under the care,
time and again, of people who were determined to ride him. Hummer, on the
other hand, had different inclinations. He was not interested at all in
being ridden and he could become very uncooperative if asked to do so. In
the process, he developed a wariness of humans that made him difficult to
handle.
When Hummer arrived at the DSC Farm he was both cautious and anxious. From
the beginning, the Sanctuary’s Animal Caretaker worked patiently with
Hummer, using the concepts of Natural Horsemanship to calm him. This method
emphasizes the principle that humans and animals interact and connect best
when working positively together, which was effective and soon Hummer was
ready to be moved into the area with his new mule companions.
The mule group can be rambunctious at times but, from the first, Hummer
blended smoothly into their world. Now he is content, living with his own
kind……..and never being asked to be ridden! |
INDIANA |
|
Indiana is a large, gray-dappled Mammoth donkey,
born in 1997 in Northern Ontario. Before being admitted to the DSC in 2004,
Indiana resided at a farm in Central Ontario along with three donkey companions.
They received very good care and were able to roam in large pastures.
Unfortunately, however, as the years went by Indiana became susceptible
to the development of abscesses in his hooves. Repeatedly, he had to be
taken out of the pasture and confined alone to a paddock where he was fed
low-protein hay and barley straw. When he improved, they would place back
with his companions but soon thereafter new abscesses would develop. Eventually,
Indiana’s caretakers realized that they were not experienced enough
to deal with his ongoing delicate situation and so they contacted the DSC
and requested that he be admitted for specialist care.
During the first 2 years that Indiana resided at the Sanctuary Farm, he
spent most of his time in the main barnyard in the company of older donkeys
who also required specialist care. His diet has always been monitored very
carefully and now he is able to pass extended periods of time as part of
the main herd. In early Spring, however, when the grass is extra rich, he
must be content to eat hay. We hope that his abscesses are a thing of the
past. |
JACQUES |
|
Jacques is a chocolate brown Standard donkey
who was born in 1994. When he was several months old, he was moved to a
farm where there were several horses. The owners did not realize that the
social organization of horses is different from that of donkeys and they
expected that Jacques would be accepted by his new equine companions. Unfortunately,
that was not the case: the horses would not accept a different equine into
their herd. As a result, Jacques became very difficult to handle.
When the owners realized what was happening, they contacted the DONKEY SANCTUARY
OF CANADA and asked that Jacques be taken into care. It was a difficult
decision because the daughter in the family was very fond of Jacques but
eventually she realized that it would be best for the little donkey to live
where he could be with his own kind.
Jacques is a very lively donkey, extremely curious, and to this day, he
can be quite a handful if he decides that he wants to do something. He is
most content, living amongst the Sanctuary herd, grazing in large fields
and able to investigate anything that comes his way. Thank you for helping
us to care for him this year. |
JIMMY |
|
Jimmy is an all-white Standard mule who was
born in Northern Ontario in 1995. His caretaker was an elderly man and they
lived on a small farm. During their time together, Jimmy was spoiled and
never properly trained. Mules respond best to firm, consistent treatment
and they like to know what their boundaries are. They are very curious and
clever, and also strong-willed. Jimmy became difficult to handle and, eventually,
he was sold to a woman who lived in Southern Ontario.
At the new farm, Jimmy was extremely agitated. The horses that he was expected
to live with did not accept him into their hierarchy and his behaviour became
increasingly unpredictable. Within a week, the new caretaker contacted the
DSC and requested that Jimmy be taken into care.
Nowadays, Jimmy lives with the other mules at the DSC Farm. Currently, they
are a small herd of 9and they have their own unique social organization.
Mules are hybrid animals with a donkey parent and horse parent and they
carry the traits of both lines. Mules are extremely intelligent and they
can be exceedingly loyal. They tend to have a hierarchy, unlike donkeys
and they can become easily jealous of one another.
In his new life, Jimmy is extremely content. He much enjoys to visit with
people on Open Days so long as they are on the other side of the fence.
Before long, however, he can tire of this and moves to join his mule companions. |
JOHNNY |
| Johnny, a white Standard donkey, was admitted
to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in 1996.. There was no background information
available at the time but, when the DSC veterinarian examined his teeth,
the donkey was estimated to have been born in 1993.
Johnny and a companion donkey, France, had been advertised for sale when
the notice was read by supporters of the DSC. They telephoned about the
ad and, as a result of the ensuing conversation, they became concerned about
the donkeys’ futures. Their owner had purchased them in the hope of
making a quick profit on resale, however, since that had yet to occur, he
was inclined to sell them to a slaughterhouse.
Upon learning that fact, the caring people went to see the donkeys. They
were appalled at the animals’ condition and at the fact that so little
consideration was being given to their lives. Thereafter, when they had
confirmed that the DSC would give Franco and Johnny (as they named them)
a lifelong home, the donkeys were purchased and moved immediately to the
Sanctuary Farm.
Since both donkeys were jack stallions, they were gelded and kept apart
from the main Sanctuary herd after their arrival. Thereafter, several weeks
later, when their testosterone levels had subsided, the donkeys were moved
in with their new equine companions.
Johnny is particularly content living at the Sanctuary Farm. At one point,
Franco and he were moved to a DSC Foster Farm. The farm consisted of several
large fields where the donkeys could roam and they were placed as companions
to three horses. Johnny, however, did not take to these other animals and
he became difficult to handle. Although horses and donkeys are both members
of the equine family, their social organization is very different. After
a month, It was decided that the donkeys should be returned to the Sanctuary.
And Johnny has been most agreeable ever since. |
JUANITA |
|
Juanita, a pinto Standard donkey, is one of
the shyest residents at the DSC Farm. She was born in 1992 and, although
she has been under the care of the Sanctuary for all of her life (her mother,
Speckle, was pregnant upon admission to the DSC), she has always been somewhat
tentative around people. Juanita much prefers to stand by her mother's side,
at all times if possible, and observe activities in the barnyard from a
distance. For a time, Speckle and Juanita resided at a DSC Foster Farm.
However, circumstances changed, and so they were brought back to the Sanctuary.
Juanita, in particular, is most content living in a peaceful, uneventful
environment. |
JULIETTE |
|
Juliet is a gray-brown Standard donkey who
was born in British Columbia in 1995. For most of her life she lived on
a small farm and was cared for very well. In 2006, however, her caretakers
became divorced. Juliet was moved to board at another farm but, to the concern
of her owner, after several months it was discovered that the donkey was
being neglected to an alarming degree. It was at that point that her owner
contacted the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA to request that Juliet be taken
into lifelong care. At considerable personal sacrifice, arrangements were
made for the three-day trailer trip to Ontario.
Since her arrival, Juliet has settled in well to her new home. She is very
much a ‘people’ donkey and clearly enjoys to greet visitors
on Open Days. At the same time, Juliet is an assertive equine and be quite
determined to get her own way if she sees something that she wants. |
JUNO |
 |
Juno is a brown Standard donkey with a white
chest, belly and legs. Her dark brown eyes are enormous. Before being given
a lifelong home at the Sanctuary, Juno lived in an abusive environment.
She was regularly hit with a shovel and fed very little. When a kind-hearted
neighbour was able to persuade her owners to sell Juno, the donkey was brought,
on the brink of starvation, to the neighbour’s farm. Juno’s
new owners had no experience in the kind of specialist care that Juno required,
however, and so they requested that she be taken in by the DSC.
Since her admission in late 2008, Juno has been living with the oldies and
special-needs donkeys on the Farm. This small, quiet herd is providing the
kind of company that is required by this extremely nervous, shy creature.
We anticipate that many months will pass before Juno will be able to stand
still when a human approaches. In the meantime, she is receiving consistent
and gentle care. On a regular basis, she is moved into a stall where a staff
person can brush her and speak quietly. Over time, we are hopeful that Juno
will learn that she does not have to be fearful in the Sanctuary’s
safe world. |
LITTLE BRITCHES |
|
Little Britches is a brown and white spotted
Standard donkey, born in 1996 in West Virginia. As a foal, Little Britches
was frail and she could not cope with the group of animals with whom she
lived. A caring woman happened to visit the farm where the little donkey
lived and she persuaded the owner that Little Britches would be better off
in a quieter environment. The owner agreed and the donkey was transferred
to the woman’s care.
Unfortunately, several years later the woman suffered a series of financial
setbacks and she realized that she would have to find another home for Little
Britches. When she happened to read about The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
in the publication of the American Donkey and Mule Society, she contacted
the DSC office to request that Little Britches be admitted.
As a result, Little Britches was trailered to the Sanctuary Farm by the
woman in September, 1999, after a twelve hour drive, made over two days.
Nowadays, Little Britches lives amongst the herd at the Sanctuary Farm.
She is a healthy, active donkey, always curious, gentle and much content
to enjoy the attention of Sanctuary visitors. |
LOKI |
|
Loki is an all-white Standard donkey who was
brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm in summer 2006.
He was born in 2003 and was rescued, along with his mother, Anu, from a
property in Eastern Ontario where they had been abandoned. Their hooves
had not been trimmed in years and Loki was severely hobbled whenever he
tried to walk.
Upon arrival at the DSC Farm, work was begun on the repair and rehabilitation
of the donkeys’ hooves. At first, Loki was nervous around the farrier
but then the little donkey sensed that there was no danger and he settled
down. Several treatments ensured that his hooves would regrow into the correct
shape and length.
Since his arrival at the DSC, Loki has come to enjoy the company of his
new companions in the Sanctuary’s main herd. He is very playful and
often can be seen frolicking in the fields, in particular in the company
of Apollo. Both enjoy to graze side by side..
Loki will be under the care of the DSC for the rest of his life. In time,
perhaps Apollo and he will be moved together to a DSC Foster Farm. However,
until just the right situation develops, one where they would receive lots
of attention and have a great deal of space to move around, they will remain
at the Sanctuary Farm. |
LADY |
|
Lady is a gracious, dun-coloured standard
donkey who was born in 1994. She lived for six years on a farm in Eastern
Ontario along with three other donkeys. They were treated very well by their
caretakers but, unfortunately, one of them became very ill, no longer able
to go to the barn on a regular basis. There was no choice but to find the
donkeys a new home. Although there were many offers, none was deemed suitable
for the group of four.
Around that time, the caretakers became aware of the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF
CANADA. We provide a loving home for the animals that are taken in and we
aim at all times to give them the best possible care. Help was sought from
the DSC and within a week the donkeys were brought to the Sanctuary Farm
outside Guelph, Ontario.
Lady is a gentle, reserved donkey with a very soothing presence. Over the
years her pal, Donkeschoen, and she have become inseparable. They graze
together in the fields and then stand close to one another during rest periods.
When the time comes for their regular grooming, each much enjoys the extra
attention. |
MEEGERS |
 |
Meegers was born in 1988 and
his mother is Ms Jenners who is also at the Sanctuary. Meegers is a gelding
Standard donkey with a beautiful brown-grey coat. Before being brought to
the DSC in 2008, he lived all of his life on a donkey-breeding farm where
he was the ‘class clown’ along with his half sister, Rosie.
Meegers has settled in very well to the routine at the Sanctuary Farm. He
roams by the hour in the large fields and pastures and, as a result of this
ongoing exercise, he is gradually losing some of the excess weight that
he carried at the time of his admission. When the time comes to rest, however,
Meeger can often be found standing by Ms Jenners’ side
|
MISS JENNY |
|
Miss Jenny is a dark brown Miniature mule,
born in 2003. We think that her mother was a Shetland pony and her father
was a Miniature donkey.
Not a lot is known about Miss Jenny's background but, on arrival at The
DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm in early 2008, this little mule was extremely
nervous and wary. At the farm where she lived before being moved to this
safe haven, Miss Jenny shied away from all human contact. In our experience
here at the DSC, if mules are treated roughly in their early years then
it is extremely difficult for them to trust human contact thereafter.
Since Miss Jenny has been admitted to the Sanctuary, she has been living
amongst our small mule herd. Although the mules can be fractious with one
another at times, Miss Jenny has proved to be an exception and she has fit
in very smoothly with the group. In particular, Ginger and she often graze
side by side.
As far as her association with Sanctuary staff is concerned, this little
mule is gaining some confidence, albeit very slowly . It will take her a
long time to become really comfortable, but that is alright with us because
we intend to give her a home for the rest of her life. |
MOLLY (Mule) |
|
Molly is a little gray hinny who was born
in 1990 and then brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm in 1995.
A hinny is a hybrid equine, like a mule. Molly’s mother was a Miniature
donkey and her father was a small horse.
Nothing is known of Molly’s first five years. Although very gentle
when she is relaxed, Molly has always been very wary of human contact. This
suggests a degree of mistreatment in her early years. On a day-to-day basis,
Molly prefers the company of the other mules at the DSC. Her particular
companion is another hinny, Saucy Clara. They are content to roam the fields
together, grazing and moving about constantly.
In spite of her hesitation with people, Molly does enjoy to be groomed.
So long as she is approached quietly and spoken to softly, Molly will stand
still and allow her coat to be brushed.
At the Sanctuary Farm we provide a lifelong home to donkeys, mules and hinnies
like Molly, creatures that have nowhere else to go except to a slaughterhouse.
At the DSC, they can live out their lives, in a natural environment, here
for everyone to enjoy. |
MONTE |
|
Monte is a gray Miniature donkey gelding
who was born in 1993. He is 36” tall at the withers and he has a black
cross on his back.
In his first year, he was moved to a small family farm. Unfortunately, the
quality of care was not to the standard that the breeder expected, because
Monte’s new caretakers led such busy lives, and so the breeder convinced
the family that it would be much better if the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA
were to admit the little donkey. He lived at the main Sanctuary Farm for
several years and then he was placed on loan at a DSC Foster Farm where
he joined two other donkeys, Abigail and Becky. They received considerable
attention and Monte much enjoyed this change. After four years, the family
requested that Monte and his companions be moved back to the DSC Farm as
they were no longer able to give them care. All three arrived in Spring
2007.
It did not take long for Monte to reunite with his gelding companions although
he continues to pass extended periods each day with Abigail and Becky. Monte
is a lively, curious creature, much enjoyed by staff, volunteers and visitors
alike. |
MS JENNERS |
 |
Ms Jenners is a lovely, pale
gray-brown Standard donkey who was born in 1983. She is the mother of Meeger
and Rosie. For all of her life before being admitted to The DONKEY SANCTUARY
OF CANADA, Ms Jenners lived on a donkey-breeding farm in Southern Ontario.
Although she is gentle with humans and with the other donkeys, Ms Jenners
can be very determined to get her own way. Meeger and Rosie have lived with
her all of their lives and Ms Jenners is accustomed to bossing them around
(!)
Ms Jenners is particularly content to be groomed and fussed over by Sanctuary
volunteers. Her strong personality is very appealing.
|
ODIN |
|
Odin is a white, Standard donkey who was born
at the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm on August 2, 2006. His mother, Anu,
had been brought to the DSC after having been abandoned on a farm in Eastern
Ontario. At the time of her admission, she was in the last stages of a pregnancy.
Odin has been in excellent health since his birth. He is extremely active
and curious, although he is seldom far away from his mother’s side.
He was the first foal born at the Sanctuary Farm in eight years and he has
been much the center of attention ever since. He is particularly fond of
racing around the barnyard, leaping all the while and enjoying the sheer
pleasure of movement. At times the older donkeys would prefer that he were
a little more quiet!
Odin will be under the protection of the DSC for the rest of his life. After
his mother weans him, he will roam and graze with Sanctuary’s main
herd. |
PABLO |
|
Until now, biographies of donkeys at the DONKEY
SANCTUARY OF CANADA have concerned only one animal at a time. We are making
an exception in this case, however, because Pablo and Chullo are inseparable.
We estimate that they were born in 2002 and, although very different in
appearance: Pablo is white and Chullo is spotted brown and white, these
two Standard donkeys are always in one another’s company. They roam
the fields together, grazing side by side or they can often be found standing
next to one another at rest in the barn.
Like too many animals, Pablo and Chullo had been moved around several times.
We do not know much about their early years but 18 months prior to their
arrival at the DSC in late 2006, they had been spotted at an equine auction
in Michigan where they were slated to go to slaughter. In turn, and due
to the efforts of a local rescue group, the two donkeys were saved from
that dismal fate. Eventually, they were adopted by a family from Ontario.
Unfortunately, however, this new situation was not to be long-term. The
family had meant to care for the animals on a permanent basis but then found
themselves unable to do so. In desperation, they called the DSC to ask for
help and soon thereafter, Pablo and Chullo were admitted. They will be under
the care of the Sanctuary for the rest of their natural lives.
Pablo’s and Chullo’s experiences are not unique. So long as
we humans choose not to assume responsibility for animals’ entire,
natural lives, we will create ever-repeating situations wherein the creatures
involved too-often become lost in the shuffle. There are too many who are
not so fortunate as Pablo and Chullo; too many are sacrificed to the slaughter
houses when there is really no need.
From our vantage point here at the DSC, we consider that much more attention
has to be paid to the planning process. To take on the care of another creature
is, indeed, “a very big deal”, and it should never be done lightly.
Before we breed more animals we have to stop, look around, and assess the
need for such events. Yes, kittens, puppies, foals and the like are adorable,
but they grow up very quickly and life spans range from one to several decades.
Being responsible stewards of our world requires that we adopt a longer
view and taking care means that we ensure a positive fate for those who
cannot help themselves. |
PACO |
|
Paco is the littlest donkey who has ever been
admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA. He was born in 1998 and had
a deformed jaw which in turn affected the location of his right eye and
ear. Due to this condition, Paco was unable to nurse. He had to be bottle-fed
by his caretaker and, as a result, he bonded with her to the point that
he began to relate with humans as being his natural herd. As a result, he
had no interest in the other donkeys on the farm.
When Paco’s caretaker could not longer care for him, she requested
that he be admitted to the Sanctuary. He was 3 months old at the time. After
his arrival, Paco was given a high protein foal mixture, softened with reconstituted
mare’s milk to help his little body develop strength. After seeking
the advice of experts in donkey behaviour, a separate grazing area was created
and Paco was placed there in the company of another young donkey from whom
he could learn.
Today, Paco lives with Chiclet, his constant companion, and with the older
donkeys at the DSC. He is able to eat, albeit slowly, a diet specially prepared
for him. Paco is a unique donkey and his health is watched very carefully.
He is gentle and curious and always content to greet visitors to the Sanctuary
Farm. |
PANNE |
|
Panne is a dark brown, Mammoth donkey who
was born in 1991 on a donkey breeding farm in Southern Ontario. Shortly
after Panne’s birth the owner of the farm became very ill. It was
decided that the donkeys had to be sold. And after a week, when no buyers
appeared, the owner decided to put the donkeys into an equine auction.
When Sandra Pady, who lived nearby, was told of the probable fate of these
animals (ie. that they would be sold to the slaughterhouse representative
if no other interested buyer was in attendance at the time of the auction),
she arranged to have them brought to her farm. Subsequently, other donkeys
in need were taken in and, within a year (1992), the Sanctuary was established
as a not for profit charity.
When Panne was brought to his new, permanent home, along with his mother,
Velvet, he was three months old. While being transported to the farm in
a stock trailer, Panne’s right hind leg was severely gashed. Several
weeks went by before the wound healed and, in the process, Panne became
wary of people when they wanted to handle his leg. This led to his being
extremely nervous around a farrier and it was several years before he learned
to relax during a hoof-trimming session.
Panne is most content to live and roam with his gelding companions in the
Sanctuary’s extensive fields. He is an adventurer, always looking
to the other side of the fence where the grass is greener. He tends to be
accident-prone and manages to scrape or cut himself on something at least
once a year. At those times, Panne is brought into the barnyard with the
older donkeys and treated accordingly. During most of those times, however,
he stands next to the main gate, as if to say, “I would rather be
with my gelding pals”! |
PANSY |
|
Pansy is a dun-coloured, Miniature donkey
who was born in 1983. For many years, Pansy lived on a farm in Quebec and
it was there that she gave birth to her daughter, Poppy, in 1988. Both donkeys
received the best of care but, in 1995, their caretaker divorced and she
had to sell the farm. She was very concerned about the donkeys’ future
and so, when she learned about the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA, she requested
that they be taken into lifelong care.
Pansy is a most agreeable little donkey and she is very popular with visitors
to the DSC. When students come to the farm to learn about the animals and
their lives, Pansy is always gentle and patient with their enthusiastic
attention.
Although Pansy and Poppy, who are always together, go out to graze with
the Sanctuary’s main herd, they are even more content to remain in
the barnyard with their older companions. Especially, they like to be close
at hand when carrot treats are given out each day. |
POPPY |
|
Poppy is a gray-brown Miniature donkey who
was brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm in 1995. She had been
born in 1988 and lived with her mother, Pansy, on a farm in Eastern Quebec.
When the farm had to be sold, their caretaker requested that they be taken
admitted to the DSC for lifelong care.
In the years since Poppy’s and Pansy’s arrival, they have been
wonderful ambassadors for the Sanctuary. They have been taken to fairs,
to visit the elderly and the sick. and to church services. On every occasion
they have been gentle and patient with all of the attention that they always
receive.
At the Farm, Poppy and Pansy, who are always together, prefer to spend their
time in the barnyard with the older donkeys. When they aren’t grazing,
they prefer to be by themselves and to stand quietly in a corner of the
barn and snooze. |
REBECCA |
|
Rebecca is a chocolate-brown Standard donkey
who was born in 1998. For years she resided at a farm where she received
very good care. By the time she was 4 years old, however, she started to
experience seizures and, after extensive veterinary care, it was concluded
that these spells were caused by a tumor in her brain. She was monitored
very carefully for years thereafter and, fortunately, the seizures gradually
abated.
Rebecca was brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm in 2007 along
with her mother, Abigail. They are inseparable companions and extremely
friendly with Sanctuary visitors. As with all the donkeys and mules, Rebecca
will be under the care of the DSC for the rest of her natural life. |
RENO |
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Born in 1993, Reno is a roan-coloured Standard
mule with a black mane and tale. His father was a Standard donkey and his
mother was a Quarter horse.
Before he was admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in 1994, Reno had
been passed from the farm where he was born to a teaching farm in Southern
Ontario. It had been intended that he would be one of the students' animals
in a Veterinary Technician's Program.
After a few months, however, the teaching staff found that the students
could not handle Reno. He was extremely lively and he required more training
and attention than they were able to give. Fortunately, one of the students
had become aware of the DSC where a lifelong home is provided to donkeys
and mules that are no longer wanted, neglected or abused.
In the many years since his arrival at the Sanctuary, Reno has benefited
from the consistent attention that he receives. He lives contentedly with
his mule companions. They form a lively herd and have no inclination to
be with the donkeys. They have their own extensive fields to graze in and
their own shelter to keep them warm and dry. This last, however, is difficult
because Reno, like all of the mules, prefers to stand outside, rain or shine,
hot or cold. Reno is a friendly creature and very content to receive attention
from Farm visitors and staff. |
ROSIE |
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Rosie was born in 1986. She is
light brown-gray Standard donkey who was the first-born foal of Ms Jenners,
another donkey at the Sanctuary Farm. Although the markings on their faces
are different, mother and daughter resemble one another quite closely.
Rosie was brought to the DSC in 2008 and she has quickly demonstrated a
sense of humour. She can be playful - and determined - all at the same time.
In addition, she is very clever and amongst her many skills is the ability
to open gates. She has surprised us on several occasions by appearing where
she was unexpected!
Since her arrival, Rosie has gradually been losing weight, due to her increased
level of exercise. Her diet is being watched carefully, however, since it
is unhealthy for donkeys to lose weight too quickly.
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SABLE |
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Sable is a medium-brown, Miniature donkey,
born in 2000. She is a very delicate, dainty creature with tiny hooves
and a beautiful coat.
Before being admitted to the Sanctuary in 2008, Sable lived contentedly
on a small farm. However, when the husband in the family experienced a
near fatal stroke, his wife realized that, for an unknown period of time
in the future, she would not be able to give her animals the kind of care
that they deserved. She turned to the DSC for help and so Sable was admitted
for lifelong care.
Due to her size, Sable is most content living in the barnyard with the
Sanctuary’s most senior residents. Occasionally, she mingles amongst
the donkeys in the main herd but they are all so much larger than she
that she can be overwhelmed. On Open Days, she mingles freely with the
visitors, much enjoying all of the attention.
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SAUCY |
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Saucy is one of two hinnies that reside at
the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm. She has lived with us since 1995 and
we estimate that she was born in 1988. We were told that her farther was
Shetland pony and her mother a Miniature donkey.
This little, dark brown hinny is a most hesitant creature. It is clear that
there were too many negative experiences with humans in her life before
the DSC. In all the years that she has been with us, Saucy has never really
relaxed with people. Whenever she is approached, Saucy will turn around
and face in the opposite direction and want to move away. If she does remain
in place, however, she is content only to have her rump scratched but she
does not tolerate much other attention.
Saucy lives with her mule companions is a small herd at the DSC Farm. They
roam the fields day and night whenever they are not resting in their paddock.
Although, as a group, they are always content to be brought into the barnyard
for grooming, after a while each will indicate that he or she wants to return
to their own area. It is clear that they are most content when with one
another, in their own space. |
SOLO |
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Everyone who comes to the DONKEY SANCTUARY
OF CANADA Farm is charmed by Solo, a large Standard gray-brown donkey. He
is fascinated by people and he is particularly fond of standing next to
a person and sniffing his or her ear. In addition, he is curious, playful
and determined. Indeed, to be with Solo on a regular basis offers the opportunity
to understand how very complex a donkey can be.
Solo was born in 1987 in Northern Quebec on a small farm in a village by
a lake. His mother died during his birth and, as a result, from his early
hours of life Solo was bottle-fed by one of his caretakers. During this
process he bonded completely with her.
By the time that Solo was five years old, and after an unsuccessful, and
harsh, training experience at a neighbour’s farm, Solo’s unpredictability
had become a serious concern. His caretaker found it almost impossible to
handle him but she refused to give him up unless he could be moved to a
situation where he would be helped. Quite by chance, in a newspaper article,
she learned of the DSC and subsequently requested that Solo be admitted
to lifelong care.
Now, many years have passed since Solo was brought to the Sanctuary Farm.
In that time he has taught us a great deal about equine-human communication
and about the language of body movement. Over time, we have come to appreciate
that, in Solo’s case, most every one of his responses is prompted
by fear. For him, younger, active donkeys are a threat and he is nervous
around them. He much prefers to pass all of his time in the barnyard, apart
from the herd, and able to stand nearby staff and volunteers as they go
about their work.
Solo is unique and from him we have leaned a great deal about nonverbal
communication. He is a special member of the Sanctuary family. |
SPECKLE |
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Speckle is one of the quietest, least assuming
donkeys at the Sanctuary Farm. She was born in 1985 and lived on a breeding
farm in her early years. Speckle was in foal when she was admitted to
the DSC in late 1991, and six months thereafter, she gave birth to her
daughter, Pinta. For a time, Speckle and Pinta resided at a DSC Foster
Farm; however, circumstances changed so they were brought back to the
Sanctuary. Pinta has always been very dependent upon her mother, who is
extremely patient, gentle, and quite resigned to always having her daughter
by her side. |
SPICE |
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Spice is a red roan coloured Standard donkey
who was born in 2004. For her first two years, she lived under exceptionally
neglectful conditions on a farm in south-western Ontario. Eventually,
an inspection was made by the OSPCA during summer 2006. The conditions
were so bad that Fancy, along with all of the other animals on the farm,
were seized and taken to an OSPCA foster farm.
When she was rescued, Spice was very thin and weak in her hind legs. She
almost swaggered when she walked, in part because her hooves were painfully
overgrown. From the moment of her arrival at the foster farm, Spice brought
joy to her caretakers. One of them wrote, "Spice loves carrots and sweet
feed. Her beauty comes from within - she is extremely gentle and loves
a wee kiss on the nose. She will lift her nose up to your face when she
would like one. Spice only wants to please and once she learns a lesson
she never forgets."
Spice was brought to The DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in late winter 2007
after the OSPCA requested that she be admitted. Although she continues
to enjoy human attention, Spice has settled in very smoothly with the
Sanctuary's main herd and has become best friends with Uma. She is a gentle,
lively being. |
SUMMER |
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Summer, who was born around 1970, is a large,
dun-coloured Standard donkey with an all gray muzzle. Her large brown eyes
have distinctive black lines around them that are suggestive of her zebra
cousins. Donkeys, horses and zebra make up the equine family.
Late one very hot afternoon in July 2002, a call came into the Sanctuary
office from a sheriff’s bailiff. He had been sent to a farm to impound
the possessions of a person who had not paid rent for almost a year. Much
to the bailiff’s surprise and dismay, he discovered upon arrival at
the farm that the ‘possessions’ included three horses and a
donkey, all of them badly neglected. Their owner had not been seen for many
months and, during that period, the animals had stood in stalls, day after
day, assisted only by a caring neighbour who brought them water each day.
The bailiff reacted quickly, consulted with an associate who had equine
experience, found homes for the horses and, ultimately, he was directed
to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA. Immediately, upon receiving an account
of the donkey’s situation, the jennet was taken in to lifelong care.
When Sanctuary staff went to pick up the donkey, they were appalled at the
living conditions. The animals’ stalls had not been cleaned or aired
for months and months. The donkey’s hooves had not been trimmed in
at least a year so she hobbled along painfully when they led her from the
stall to the waiting trailer.
On the day that the donkey was brought to the Sanctuary Farm, the temperature
was nearing +35C. So that we might always be reminded of her arrival during
such an unusual spell of heat, it was decided to call the donkey, ‘Summer’.
Summer settled in to the Sanctuary’s routine almost immediately. She
is a very curious creature who knows her own mind when there is something
that she wants to do. We are very pleased that she will be with us during
her retirement years. |
TENGEN |
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Tengen was born at the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF
CANADA on May 16, 1998. Here is what happened:
Tibet, Tengen’s mother, is a little Standard jennet who we estimate
was born in 1994. She is unusually shaggy, with a long gray and brown coat
of hair. She was brought to the Sanctuary in April 1997 after having been
impounded by a humane society inspector who had considered her physical
condition to be a t a dangerously low level.
After her arrival at the DSC, Tibet settled in well. Steadily, she gained
weight and, gradually, her overall condition improved, due in great part
to the large amount of exercise that she received at the Farm. It was not
until she was well into her eighth month that we realized that Tibet had
become pregnant before her arrival at the Sanctuary. (Here at the DSC, we
don’t buy, sell or breed animals but, of course, if a jennet is already
pregnant upon arrival, we will give lifelong care to the foal.)
Tibet carried the foal for 12 months and 2 weeks and then early one morning,
Tengen was born in a very healthy condition.
During his first year, Tengen and Tibet were always together. Gradually,
thereafter, Tibet weaned Tengen. Over the years, he has grown and matured
into a lively, curious adult donkey who enjoys to frolic with his gelding
companions. Come day’s end, however, Tengen can almost always be found
right at his mother’s side. |
TERRA |
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Terra is a light brown, Standard Molly mule
who was admitted to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in late summer 2004.
At that time she was 10 years old and she had lived all of her life at boarding
stables in the company of horses. Unfortunately, her caretaker, who was
very fond of Terra, became unable to continue to pay for her upkeep and
so the DSC was contacted with a request for admission.
Shortly after she was brought to the DSC Farm, Terra was moved in to live
with the Sanctuary’s small herd of mules. They are a lively group
and, in no time at all, Terra had found her place amongst them. She has
a strong temperament and has never hesitated to stand up for herself when
she considers that it is her turn for attention or treats. Terra is curious
and very quick and she much enjoys Open Days when there are lots of visitors.
At other times Terra can be found with her companions, grazing in the fields
or playing games of chase in the paddocks. |
TIBET |
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Tibet is a little Standard jennet who we estimate
was born around 1994. She is very shaggy, with a long, very fine, gray and
brown coat of hair. She was brought to the DONKEY SANCTUARY OF CANADA in
1997 after having been impounded by a humane society inspector who considered
her physical condition to be at a dangerously low level.
Upon arrival, Tibet’s long hair was horribly matted, clumped with
manure and lice. The hair clung to a body that was all skin and bone. In
addition, we concluded that her hooves had never been trimmed. They were
so overgrown that her front feet were turned out of line by almost forty-five
degrees. During the months that followed, Tibet gained weight steadily and
her general physical condition improved dramatically.
On May 16, 1998, Tibet gave birth to a jack foal who was named Tengen. It
was not until she was well into her eighth month that we realized that,
at the time of her arrival at the DSC, she was already pregnant. She carried
the foal for 12 months and 2 weeks. Tengen, who is pure white, was born
in a very healthy condition.
During his first months, Tengen and Tibet were always together. She watched
him at all times and she investigated closely any person who wanted to come
near him. At the end of a year she weaned him. As more time passed, he became
increasingly independent, enjoying to run in the fields with the other donkey
geldings.
As the years have passed, Tengen has grown and matured. He much enjoys to
frolic with his pals in the fields but always, when it is time to rest,
he can be found at Tibet’s side. She has always been patient with
him and gentle with the many visitors who come to experience the donkeys’
quiet world. |
TROOPER |
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Trooper is an all white, Standard donkey,
born in 1993 in Southern Ontario.
When he was admitted to The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada in 2003 Trooper’s
condition was very serious. An infection had caused his body to be covered
with open sores and the founder in his hooves was so severe that he was
unable to walk. In the early stages of Trooper’s care, extraordinary
efforts were made by Sanctuary staff to ensure that his recuperation would
be successful. As the days and weeks passed, the infection was eradicated
and the sores gradually healed. Corrective shoes were placed on his hooves
in order to encourage proper regrowth of the hoof walls. After two months,
his appetite and strength had improved considerably and, for short periods
at a time, he could walk carefully around the barn paddock.
The long-term prognosis regarding Trooper’s health and fitness is
very good. These days he resides at the Sanctuary Farm in the company of
the donkeys in the main herd. At the same time, Trooper’s condition
is always being monitored. His hooves are sensitive and his diet cannot
ever be too rich or there could be a recurrence of the founder.
On Open Days, Trooper is content to be brought into the barnyard to greet
visitors and to be patted and fussed over. |
UMA |
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In late 2006, Uma was admitted to the DONKEY
SANCTUARY OF CANADA Farm. She was born in 1989 and had lived for 12 years
on a small farm under the care of an elderly couple. After the husband’s
death, the farm was sold, and the decision was made to request that she
be taken in for lifelong care at the Sanctuary.
Uma is a large, dark brown, Standard donkey with an exceptionally soft,
thick coat of hair. She has long been accustomed to personal and positive
attention and, as a result, she is very comfortable around staff and volunteers.
Although she is greatly missed by her former caretakers, Uma has settled
in very well in her new environment where she can mingle with her many donkey
companions. |
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The Sanctuary