Nineteen badly neglected donkeys were found abandoned and in a deeply distressed state in Galway in a startling case of abuse.
In recent weeks Donkey Sanctuary Ireland has been working with other welfare organisations to provide care and new homes for the adult and young animals left abandoned.
One donkey was found dead on arrival at the location in Galway, while another four of those initially recued had to be euthanised on-site on health and welfare grounds.
This case is a significant moment, but not unexpected,” commented Laura Foster, Director at The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland.
In recent months the charity has been highlighting a deepening welfare crisis for donkeys in Ireland, which is putting a strain on their services.
“We have been talking publicly for some time about the unsustainable demand for our welfare services, which now far exceeds our capacity for sanctuary-based care.”
“Although we expect the Galway case to be the last time we are able to bring new donkeys into our care for the foreseeable future, we will be as busy as ever providing support, advice and rehoming services to donkeys across Ireland.”
Commenting on the prospects for future donkeys in need, Laura explained that prevention and legal deterrents are the only sustainable solution for all agencies involved in animal welfare.
“We will be increasing our education and support activities to reach as many donkeys as we can.”
“However, this work can only be effective alongside robust law enforcement, which is why our relationship with government veterinary inspectors, the Gardaí, and the ISPCA, is so important.”
“We must also tackle the donkey population issue through castration and effective end-of-life decision-making. Too often, we see suffering that could have been prevented or stopped much sooner.”
