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Celebrating 50 Years

Five decades of dedication

To celebrate our founder Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE's birthday, take a step into the past and explore The Donkey Sanctuary's journey over 50 years.

Discover our new timeline
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Working towards a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering.

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Visit The Donkey Sanctuary and find hundreds of donkeys and mules waiting to meet you.
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News & campaigns

Obama with friend at Italy sanctuary

Donkeys thrive after ear amputations

11 January 2019

Obama and Shorty are as different in character as two donkeys can be, but they have one thing in common - missing ears.
Conservation volunteers working in Paccombe woods

Volunteers triumph over invasive species

11 January 2019

Chainsaws and donkeys may not seem to be obvious companions, but staff and volunteers have been clearing rhododendron plants to ensure that Paccombe Farm near Sidmouth, Devon, remains a sanctuary for all types of wildlife.
Donkeys grooming each other in muddy yard during RSPCA rescue

Donkeys given a new start after surviving 'unacceptable' conditions

9 January 2019

Two donkeys found with nothing to eat and drink but rotting carrots and maggot-infested water have been taken into the care of The Donkey Sanctuary.
View all latest news stories

How you can help

Yorkshire Vet, Peter Wright, with donkey foal

Help the Animals at Christmas

Broadcast live on Channel 5 on Friday 21 December, Help the Animals at Christmas saw The Donkey Sanctuary on TV screens across the country - along with the RSPCA, Scottish SPCA, Blue Cross and Wildlife Aid Foundation.
Rehome a donkey

Rehoming scheme

Find out what it takes to rehome a pair of donkeys or mules in the UK. Could you be a Donkey Guardian and become part of our rehoming scheme?
Volunteer with donkey

Volunteer

Volunteers are The Donkey Sanctuary's true champions. Join this incredible team of people devoted to improving the lives of donkeys and mules worldwide.
More ways to support us