New chapter begins for Bobby and Rupert

Bobby and Rupert were first observed by our Senior Donkey Welfare Adviser Sarah Kenward alongside the RSPCA on Christmas Eve 2023 after our Welfare team was called by a concerned member of the public.

Sarah and an inspector from the RSPCA attended the donkeys’ home in Bristol, where their owner explained they had been unable to provide adequate care due to concerns over losing the land they rented for the donkeys, and following a family bereavement.

Sarah says: “Bobby and Rupert’s owner had been trying to rehome them without success and asked if we were able to help.

“It was clear from a distance that both donkeys were underweight. However, I was shocked at how painfully thin both donkeys really were when I put my hands on them. They had thick winter coats that hid the true extent of their body condition.

“In Bobby’s case, he was completely emaciated. I could see the points of his shoulder blades and hips, which would normally be covered by a layer of fat and muscle. Upon touching his body, it became immediately evident that he had no fat or muscle coverage on him at all.

“His ribs and spine were prominent, and we could easily feel his shoulder blades and hip bones through his coat.

“Rupert was thin too, and both donkeys’ feet were very overgrown and in need of farrier attention. Both donkeys were also unvaccinated, and had never received any dental examinations or worming.”

A close-up image of overgrown and broken donkey hooves covered in mud. — Bobby's hooves were overgrown and covered with thick mud.

Bobby’s emaciated condition meant he was unable to travel to Sidmouth; instead both donkeys made the short journey to Horseworld in Bristol, where they received the immediate veterinary care they needed.

Safe in sanctuary care

A few months later, they were transported to our donkey hospital at Brookfield Farm in Devon, where their recovery continued under the care of our Veterinary team.

An image of two donkeys being led down a ramp out of a small transport van and into a concrete paddock. — Bobby (front) and Rupert arriving at Brookfield Farm.

An image of a grey and brown donkey stood sideways looking toward the right in a grass paddock. — Rupert (front) and Bobby at Brookfield Farm.

Veterinary Surgeon Jamie Forrest says: “We are working with Bobby and Rupert every day to ensure they are on the right path to a healthy life.”

Sarah adds: “Bobby and Rupert’s case is all the more saddening knowing it was entirely preventable. As the leading organisation on donkey welfare, we are here to support and advise any donkey owners.

“My message to any donkey owner finding themselves in a challenging time is this: reach out to us and we will do our utmost to provide assistance and support however we can.

“Don’t leave it too late, you can ask for our support at any time.”