Elle and Conor find a companion for Christmas

Donkey Welfare Advisers Ciara O’Kelly and Clody O’Connor found ten-year-old Elle living alone on a large, deserted site in Co. Cork.

Ciara says: “Her only shelter was a small area beneath clusters of overgrown trees that provided little protection from the rain.

“Her grazing was sparse, forcing her to tread vast areas on her untrimmed, painful hooves in search of food and water.”

Meanwhile in Co. Wicklow, fellow Donkey Welfare Adviser Joe Prendergast was searching for a suitable companion for a six-year-old gelding named Conor.

Conor was grieving the loss of his companion Billy, who had passed away at the age of 32 from Cushing’s disease, a common hormonal disorder.

Ciara adds: “Once Elle received the expert care she needed, she was ready to be privately rehomed and was transported to the experienced home in Wicklow. Joe and I were delighted to see the pair immediately become the best of friends.”

This Christmas, Elle and Conor are thrilled to have a companion by their side to share in the joy and warmth of the festive season.

Helping donkeys in the community 

Alongside our Rehoming Scheme, we regularly rehome privately owned donkeys, which is part of our ongoing efforts to find solutions for the growing number of donkeys in need of our help in the community.

Rehoming donkeys privately is a complex process that requires significant time and resources. It’s crucial to assess the donkey’s adaptability to a new home, the potential owners’ experience, and how much ongoing support they will need

With your support, you can help us rescue more donkeys from hopeless situations and provide them with loving new homes.