A better life for Kerry and Biscuit

Fifteen-year-old mare Kerry and foal Biscuit were first brought to the attention of Donkey Welfare Adviser Sally Bamforth by the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty of Animals in November 2022. Both donkeys were living at a suburban site in central Scotland.

Through our involvement with Kerry and Biscuit’s owner, it was clear that the animals’ needs weren’t being met. An agreement was made for the donkeys to be relinquished into our care.

Recalling when she first saw Kerry, Sally says: “Her coat was dull, she was very quiet and uninterested in her surroundings.

“She looked extremely thin, and this was confirmed when I ran my hands down her chest and spine. Her chest bones were very prominent, and her spine poked through the top of her coat.

“I also observed the poor condition Kerry’s coat and skin were in. Her skin was dry and flaky, and her coat was unkempt.

“Kerry also had long hooves that were in urgent need of trimming.”

Kerry shared a field with 11-month-old colt Biscuit, though the two were unrelated. The young donkey was also thin and had a quiet demeanour.

Sally adds: “The thing that struck me most about Biscuit was how quiet he was for a donkey of his age.

“Normally, I’d expect an 11-month-old foal to be curious and full of energy. Biscuit, however, stood by quietly.”

Once they were loaded onto our transporter, the donkeys were taken to a nearby holding base where they could be examined further.

“When Kerry first arrived at the holding base, we became quite concerned about her,” Sally says. “She was unsteady on her feet and appeared weak.

“Thankfully, Kerry pulled through and eventually did start to put weight on. It was then that her character began to shine.”

A new start

It’s been more than a year since Kerry and Biscuit arrived at the holding base. Their recovery was initially slow and steady, but now both donkeys are thriving under the specialised care they have received.

The age difference between the two donkeys was telling – while Kerry wanted to relax in peace, Biscuit was full of life and regularly trying to instigate energetic play sessions.

Biscuit’s friendly nature also began to emerge, and he soon helped nervous donkeys overcome their trust barriers after arriving at the holding base.

Grant and Graceland were two such donkeys. Originally part of our Rehoming Scheme, they found it difficult to interact with people while they were living at a Guardian home. But the duo became a trio when they were introduced to Biscuit at the holding base while he was still paired with Kerry.

Adele Crompton, Donkey Welfare Adviser, says: “Biscuit, Grant and Graceland have become a wonderful trio. They enjoy playing together and Biscuit has helped the pair become more comfortable interacting with people.”

While Biscuit reaps the benefit of younger company, Kerry has also struck up a fresh bond with an older mare at the holding base. The pair enjoy each other’s company and are living a much calmer lifestyle.

Sally adds: “The transformation of Kerry and Biscuit is such a joy to see. When I first saw them on that grey, miserable November day, I was so worried about them.

“It is so lovely to see that Kerry is now leading the life she deserves and I’m excited for what the future holds for both of these beautiful donkeys.”