Mistreated donkeys given a new life at sanctuary GIVE IT UP

Did you know donkeys live for more than 50 years and are more like dogs than horses? These affectionate, intelligent animals thrive on company and attention but, according to Sandy KokasMagnussen, manager at the Good Samaritan Donkey Sanctuary, they are very misunderstood. “People don't realise the care they need,” she says. Kokas-Magnussen took over the donkey sanctuary from her mother and, between them, they've been rescuing donkeys for decades. The sanctuary is located on 120 hectares in the Hunter Valley in NSW and has an intensive care hospital for donkeys.

“It's upsetting, the state some of them come here in – it's horrific,” says Kokas-Magnussen.

The RSPCA, police or rangers contact the sanctuary if they come across a donkey in need, and they're given love and attention when they arrive. “Some are timid and have trust issues, and they won't come up for a cuddle even years of being here – they have long memories.”

Many rescued donkeys live out their days at the sanctuary, while some go to foster homes as companion animals or farm donkeys after being rehabilitated.

The sanctuary has been a registered charity since 1990 and relies on donations. It isn't as simple as putting a donkey in a paddock. They eat more like goats than horses, needing straw and hay as well as grass, to stay healthy. Donations pay for feed and medicine, plus farrier, dental, transport and fuel.

Some people make one-off or monthly donations while others sponsor a particular donkey. “We're always looking for new ways to raise funds,” says Kokas-Magnussen.

See donkeyrescue.org.au.