After more than 10 years spreading love and laughter at The Donkey Sanctuary Leeds, adoption donkeys Ripple and Billy O are moving on to pastures new.
The move comes on the recommendation of our expert veterinary team after a thorough assessment of Ripple’s health.
In recent months, Ripple has been undergoing treatment for equine asthma, and will require ongoing treatment and a dust-free environment to manage his condition going forward. A change of location will ensure that Ripple has access to specialist facilities that can offer him the best possible care.
As they have a close friendship, Billy O will be joining Ripple as he makes the move. Donkeys form incredibly strong social ties, so it’s important for both Ripple and Billy O’s wellbeing that they can stay in each other’s company.
The pair will remain under our care long-term and will settle into a new home once they have been assessed through our New Arrivals unit at our headquarters in Sidmouth, Devon. This initial period of assessment will help us to determine the most suitable place for them.
Ripple’s welfare will be our main consideration when deciding on the pair’s future. He continues to enjoy his daily life and will have his best friend Billy O alongside him throughout this new chapter.
Life at The Donkey Sanctuary Leeds
Ripple and Billy O, who arrived at our Leeds sanctuary in 2011 and 2009, have been firm favourites during their time there. Their unique characters have endeared them to staff, volunteers, visitors and adopters alike.
Those who worked with them at the centre, including Equine Coordinator Laura Lambert, have shared some of their favourite memories of the pair:
“Ripple is the most loveable donkey with the biggest personality on the yard, he gives the best cuddles ever. In his time here he has done all sorts, from being involved in donkey-assisted activities to appearing on Mr Tumble; he has approached it all at his own pace and in his own way.
“We are going to miss his wobbly bottom lip and his laid-back attitude.”
“Billy O is the character of the yard, standing by the fence and braying at the grooms to get the yard finished so he can have his breakfast. Billy O loves to be centre of attention. He’s a very energetic donkey, but does enjoy an afternoon snooze.
“All of us at Leeds will miss being brayed at every morning for a long time to come.”
There is no doubt that Ripple and Billy O will continue to spread joy as they settle into their new home.
Note to adopters
In light of their move, we have made the decision to no longer welcome new adopters to Ripple or Billy O’s adoption families. From today (28 April), you will no longer find them available on our website.
If you already adopt either Ripple or Billy O, your adoption will continue. We'll be writing to you very soon with more information about what these changes will mean for you.
We will continue to update on Ripple and Billy O’s progress as they start their next chapter. To follow their journey, keep an eye on The Donkey Sanctuary Leeds’ social media channels: