The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada

06/19/2024

Have you ever seen donkeys bonding? It's the sweetest thing! These gentle, intelligent animals form deep connections with each other, sometimes becoming inseparable pals. They groom one another, play together and sometimes just chill together. You're sure to spot some bonded pairs and some BFFs when you visit the DSC.

06/18/2024

We are thrilled to announce that Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. is joining us as the Platinum Sponsor for PACE for the Donkeys 5K Trail Run 2024!

Their generous support will drive our mission forward, helping us provide care and protection for the deserving animals at the DSC.

Thank you, Toyota, for your commitment and support. We're gearing up for a fantastic journey ahead!

06/17/2024

Ever heard of teeth floating for donkeys? It's a super important part of keeping our long-eared friends, with their 36-40 teeth, happy and healthy.

Just like us, donkeys need dental care too. The process of correcting any sharp edges or misaligned tooth conditions that can make eating painful and lead to other health issues is called 'floating' . It comes from a masonry term for smoothing a surface.

By regularly having their teeth floated, we ensure our donkeys can eat comfortably and live their best lives.

06/12/2024

Our sweet and quiet Sabrina showed her silly side this morning! While our farrier was busy with her hoof trim, Sabrina thought she'd help out by grabbing the rasp right out of his hand! Don't worry, she grabbed the safe plastic handle, not the sharp part.

It's always a treat to see Sabrina's playful personality shine through. She might like to keep to herself, but moments like these remind us how special and fun she really is!

06/11/2024

Looking for a unique birthday gift for the person who has everything? Why not sponsor a donkey or mule at the DSC!
You may even find a donkey who shares a name with your special person. Do you know a Ted, Austin, Dylan, Ellie, Hollie, Kevin, Larry, Ross, Rachel, Gerry, Johnny, Patrick, Oliver or Luke or ..….?

For just $10 a month or $75 annually, your sponsorship helps to provide food, medicine, vet care and farrier treatments and so much more.

You'll get a welcome letter, certificate of sponsorship, a picture and bio of your chosen donkey and a newsletter 3 times each year.
And if you renew your sponsorship, you'll get an update, so you can follow your donkey's progress from year to year.

https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca/sponsor-a-donkey/

06/10/2024

Phoenix, a 5-year-old wild b***o jenny from Arizona, has recently arrived at the DSC. She was wild born and raised, taken from the wild in January 2023 before coming to us from a farm near Ottawa, so sharing space with humans can be overwhelming for her. She has a strong flight instinct and even snorts quite a bit—a unique behavior we've never seen in donkeys before! Our goal is to keep interactions minimal to prevent triggering her fight or flight responses and to ensure everyone's safety during her crucial settling period with us. During this time, she'll be adjusting to her new domestic life, and we need to ensure she feels safe and comfortable. Phoenix has an exciting journey ahead as she learns to trust and adapt to her new environment. With patience and gentle training, we're hopeful she'll settle in well and thrive here at the sanctuary. Until late fall, we'll be limiting access to the staff who will be working with her and you won't be able to catch sight of her until then. But, we're happy to share these pictures of her - she's a beauty!

06/07/2024

Near the end of May, we noticed Molly wasn't her usual self. After a visit with the vet and a blood test, it was discovered that Molly had an infection. She was put on antibiotics, and we're happy to announce that she has finished her treatment and is back to her normal self!

Molly is a 36 year old hinny who was rescued from an animal auction and has been at the DSC since 1993. Despite her gentle nature when relaxed, she's always been a bit wary of human contact, hinting at some mistreatment in her early years. But over the years at the DSC, she has gained confidence and trust and now she loves a good grooming session!

Molly is truly special, and we're so happy to see her healthy and thriving again! And let's not forget her best friend, Miss Jenny! These two are inseparable and it's such a joy to see their bond.

06/05/2024

Ringo is a sweet and elderly roan dapple standard gelding, around 30 years old, who has recently joined us . After spending over 24 years in a wonderful home, Ringo faced a tough transition when the family had to sell their farm. But, despite some bald patches and needing routine vet care, he is a curious and happy guy.

Ringo had been living alone for the past year after losing his two donkey companions, so we are very happy to be able to provide him with new friends and a fresh start!

06/04/2024

Welcome home Sam, Luna, and Billie Bob!
Sam, a dark dun mini and Luna, a fair dun mini have recently returned to the DSC from a Host Farm, along with Billie Bob, a dark brown mini, who lived there with them.
Changes at the Host Farm, where they had received great care, meant that Sam and Luna needed to come home to the sanctuary farm along with Billie Bob.
Sam and Luna have settled back in nicely and Billie Bob is already winning hearts.

06/03/2024

Oliver has been a part of our sanctuary for a while now, and he's truly a gentle spirit. Was there ever a sweeter face? Oliver is completely blind and the special bond he has with the volunteers who help to care for him melts our hearts every day.

Volunteers make a world of difference in the lives of the animals at the DSC. If you've ever thought about volunteering or just want to learn more about our sweet donkeys like Oliver, we'd love to hear from you!
https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca/volunteer/

05/30/2024

WARNING: Fake Accounts Alert!

We've been made aware of some fake accounts pretending to be associated with The DSC and attempting to sell donkeys. Please be vigilant and remember:

🛑 The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada DOES NOT sell donkeys. 🛑

If you are contacted by anyone claiming to be from The DSC and offering donkeys for sale it is a scam. Here’s what to do:

Do NOT engage with the fake account.
Report the account immediately to the platform.
Spread the word to help protect others from falling victim.
Stay safe and always verify before making any transactions online.

05/30/2024

Did you know that grass pastures might not be the best home for donkeys?

Donkeys are originally from arid regions and have evolved to thrive on high-fiber, low-calorie diets. Lush grass can lead to obesity and related health issues. Too much rich grass can cause laminitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition affecting their hooves. Their digestive systems are designed for roughage, like hay and straw, rather than nutrient-rich grass.

They'll be healthier and happier on a dry lot with controlled access to appropriate forage. But, it won't stop them for reaching for that yummy grass on the other side of the fence!

05/29/2024

Before joining us, Zeb lived on a farm in Western Ontario where he was well cared for and had the company of small goats. When his owners were moving and couldn't take him along, they turned to the DSC for help. Zeb arrived in August 2021 and has been on quite the adventure since!

Adjusting to a new home and new friends was a big change for Zeb, especially since he had never met other donkeys before. But Zeb is a curious and lively guy who has found some playmates in our geldings herd. It's heartwarming to see these new friendships, although Zeb’s playful nature can sometimes get a bit rough, so we're working on ways to curb this behavior while still allowing Zeb to express his natural instincts.

We’re excited to watch Zeb continue to grow and learn here at the DSC.

05/28/2024

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden loss of one of our Host Farm donkeys, Piper. Piper came to the DSC in 2017 and since 2021 has been living her best life on a Host Farm with her pal Little Britches. Donkeys are incredibly stoic animals, often hiding signs of pain or illness until it's too late. Sadly, this was the case for Piper. By the time she showed symptoms, she was in too much pain to respond to medication, and our team made the heartbreaking decision that the kindest option was to say goodbye and humanely euthanize her. Piper will be deeply missed, but her memory will always remind us of the strength and resilience of these amazing animals.

05/27/2024

We're thrilled to share another heartwarming story of how DSC Host Farms help our donkeys thrive. You may remember Rosita, who arrived at the DSC about this time last year.

While some donkeys at the DSC form special bonds here, others find their best friend on Host Farms. When a family reached out to us after their donkey lost her companion, we knew it was the perfect opportunity for Rosita. Our sweet-yet-sassy Rosita has found her perfect match!

These two hit it off instantly and have become fast friends! We can't wait to share more updates about how Rosita blossoms in her new home.

05/23/2024

Huge shoutout to Sutherland Insurance , our amazing Silver Sponsor for PACE for the Donkeys 2024! We couldn't do it without your support!

Don't forget to sign up your team before July 31 to get a chance to win an exclusive private tour for your team in our Early Bird Draw!

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/88174/pace-for-the-donkeys-5k-trail-run-2024

PACE FOR THE DONKEYS 5k TRAIL RUN 2024 6981 Concession Road 4, Puslinch, ON, Canada - * Register your team before July 31 to be entered into the… - September 29, 2024

05/21/2024

Petunia's journey to the DSC wasn't an easy one. After her owner's sudden passing, she found herself in need of a new home. Thankfully, the DSC stepped in to offer her a safe haven.
Despite her shyness and nervous nature, Petunia has stolen the hearts of everyone here at the DSC. It's been a few years since Petunia first arrived in the spring of 2017, and while she is still shy, we're thrilled to see how far she's come. Our dedicated animal care team has been working tirelessly to help her build confidence.
Petunia was definitely in a mood this weekend!

05/16/2024

The City of Waterloo is considering reimagining the Eby Farmstead in Waterloo Park to remove the animal displays that include two aging donkeys. Public opinion is being sought.
The DSC has concerns about retaining the live animal displays at the Eby Farmstead in Waterloo Park, for a number of reasons.
* We're concerned about the welfare of the animals due to open public access and constant interaction. Animals should be kept in environments where their well-being is prioritized.
*The constant noise from the LRT operating between 5 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. can be distressing for the animals.
*These animals need considerable space to exhibit their natural behaviors.

Let's prioritize the well-being of these animals. Let the City of Waterloo know what you think about the future of the Eby Farmstead. You can find more information at https://www.engagewr.ca/eby-farmstead

The 2009 Waterloo Park Plan is scheduled to be updated in 2025. Before the happens, we need to determine the future of the Eby Farmstead live animal display. Staff will engage with residents throughout the summer of 2024 and bring a report to Council in the fall that

05/15/2024

Heeeerrrrrre comes Phoebe!

05/14/2024

Another DSC Host Farm update!

Chevy and Stryker recently graduated to a DSC Host Farm together. Both are settling in fabulously, and we're so thrilled to see them thriving.

Chevy is super curious, always busy, and absolutely adores his toys.
Stryker is all about attention but is such a gentle soul.

The Host Farm is doing an incredible job of making sure they're happy and engaged, setting up fun enrichment tasks for them throughout the summer!

05/13/2024

A little update on the beautiful Chloe...

Chloe graduated to a DSC Host Farm back in January. The donkey there had lost it's companion, when it sadly passed away over Christmas. The Host Farm was looking for a new companion and we knew that Chloe would fit the bill perfectly.

One of the reasons Host Farms are so amazing and such an important part of the DSC is their ability to provide the kind of individualized care that has been perfect for Chloe. She's a shy donkey who wasn't a fan of the hustle and bustle of the larger herds and public open days on the sanctuary farm. But now, in her new family, she's really coming out of her shell!

She's feeling more confident, vocalizing more often, and seeking all the attention and special care she deserves. Plus, she's made some new friends! Chloe has bonded with the other donkey on the farm and, more recently, even with a goat who also sadly lost their companion.

We're so happy to see Chloe thriving in her new home!

05/10/2024

Welcome back José!

José first arrived at the DSC in 2015 with his buddy Hector. In the fall of 2019, he graduated to a great DSC Host Farm along with his friend, Buster. Last month, he returned to the sanctuary after we sadly lost Buster to a neurological disorder.

Recently, we ran some blood work on José due to some issues with his hind-end coordination. The results came back, and it looks like José has been diagnosed with Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM).

EPM is caused by a parasite that leads to the progressive degeneration of the central nervous system. While there's no cure for this disease and it's impossible to predict how it may progress, we're currently evaluating treatment options for him.

We're hopeful that with treatment, José can remain stable. Right now, his symptoms aren't terribly severe, and we're doing everything we can to ensure his comfort and well-being.

We'll keep you updated on José's progress.

05/08/2024

Happy !

05/07/2024

Morning donkey chat....

05/06/2024

Mondays should always start this way.....

05/02/2024

Calling all trail runners and donkey lovers!

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for a good cause at the PACE for the Donkeys 5K Trail Run on September 29th!

Sign up your team for the race before July 31st, to be entered into the Early Bird Draw for a Private Tour of the DSC for your entire team!

Don't miss out on this chance to support a great cause and enjoy a fun day with friends! Register now at: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/88174/pace-for-the-donkeys-5k-trail-run-2024

05/01/2024

Have you heard about the Long Ears Boutique at the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada? It's an absolute gem! From adorable donkey-themed gifts to unique souvenirs, there's something for everyone!

Stop by when you come for an Open Day visit and treat yourself to some cute donkey goodies while supporting the donkeys and mules at the DSC. Your purchase helps provide care and support for the lovely animals you met on your visit!

04/30/2024

Happy World Jazz Day! We don't have a Duke Ellington at the DSC, but we sure do have a Duke - and he grooves to his own hoofbeat!

Before coming to the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, Duke lived on a farm in Eastern Ontario. On this farm, he lived with horses; however, he wasn't getting along with the horses, and the owners had no other area to house Duke in. Concerned about his well-being, they contacted DSC to see if we could take in the little donkey that needed some friends. Duke arrived in December 2019 and now has great friends - sharing a paddock with Oliver and Scout.
You can meet Duke and all his donkey friends on Open Days!
Open Days for the season begin this Sunday - do you have your tickets yet?
https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca/visit-us/