A new start for BB the mule

Our team in Ireland was first contacted by donkey owner Trina Mulready to offer advice about a mule she had recently rescued – later named BB. Like so many unwanted foals and yearlings, little BB had been abandoned.

BB was alone in the dark and had no hope of respite from the cold winter nights. With no-one to turn to, he was left to fend for himself. Just when it seemed hopeless, Trina found him wandering the streets and brought him to her home. She provided him with the warmth and comfort he desperately needed and for the first time in so long he was safe.

Although BB was now out of danger, Trina was inexperienced and unsure of the mule’s needs, so she contacted us for advice. She soon met with our Donkey Welfare Adviser Eva Ellis.

BB was a growing stallion, unhandled and unpredictable. His behaviour could have become a challenge for many owners but could be overcome with patience and understanding.

With our behaviour shaping programme, BB became easier to handle and received the farrier and veterinary attention he needed. As a result of his castration, BB became much more placid and was improving daily, but without a companion he was lonely.

Eva had been working with an owner who was struggling to care for their donkey and had asked us to rehome him. We had treated the donkey – later named Chum – for rain scald and ringworm, and organised farrier visits for his hooves.

Eva was confident that Chum would make a great companion for BB, and on the day they were introduced, they immediately became friends.

Both BB and Chum have been given the gift of friendship. If BB had been left wandering the streets alone that cold night, his chances of survival would have been low. Instead, he now has a warm and safe home this winter to share with his companion.

For more stories about our work in Ireland, visit The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland website here.