Why a donkey refuge?
The Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge tells this story about George.
“When George arrived at the donkey refuge in 2012, it was immediately clear that he would require very special handling as a result of the severe abuse that he endured in the first six years of his life.
“George was rescued in the Lower Mainland from an owner who confined him along with other farm animals in a windowless shed. He had experienced the abuse of starvation – his previous owner’s way of culling his unwanted animals. It was very obvious that George was badly damaged from this life.
“George continues to be affected by his previous confinement. He lacks the typical social skills needed to be part of the donkey herd. The refuge veterinarian has diagnosed George with a lack of understanding on how to behave as a donkey. This is complicated yet again with the unsuccessful gelding (neutering) operation he received prior to his arrival at the refuge. George behaves as if he is still an equine stud which can endanger himself and other herd members.
“Until 2015, George was unable to know the enjoyment of living with a herd of his own. Then in early May, George, who had been living next to our mule Dan Patch and his donkey friend Whitey, lifted the gate between them and joined their herd. This is a huge step forward for George and truly underlines the deep changes having a safe and permanent home at the refuge can do for even the most psychologically damaged and abused donkey. Together, we can make a difference in donkey’s lives.
“The Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge is committed to rescuing abused, neglected and unwanted donkeys and providing a safe and healthy permanent home for them.”
The refuge is currently raising funds to help feed the more than 90 donkeys in their care who will require thousands of bales of hay over the winter, bales which cost about $6.50 each. The fundraising goal is $35,000. If you would like to help or simply would like more information about the donkey refuge, go to http://www.turtlevalleydonkeyrefuge.com/.