Saying goodbye to Bonnie

On Tuesday 13 February, Bonnie started showing signs of colic, and it quickly became apparent that her condition was very serious. Her grooms noticed she was lying down and refusing to get up or eat, which is very out of character.

Our veterinary teams acted quickly to assess Bonnie’s condition and discuss the best course of action. The team made the decision to urgently refer Bonnie for colic surgery, as it was apparent her condition could not be managed without surgery. She underwent emergency surgery on Tuesday night and was monitored continuously following the surgery.

Despite the surgery going well, by Friday Bonnie’s health had declined further and on the recommendation of our veterinary team and specialist colic surgeons, we made the heartbreaking decision to gently put Bonnie to sleep. She passed in comfort and peace with her donkey friend Bud by her side. We are keeping a close eye on Bud as he mourns the loss of his friend.

A tribute to Bonnie

As a long-term resident at our Sidmouth sanctuary, Bonnie was a well-known and well-loved donkey by all.

Maxine Carter, Slade House Farm Manager at The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth, has paid tribute to beautiful Bonnie. Recalling fond memories of her, Maxine says: “Bonnie’s passing leaves a big hole in our hearts – she was the biggest donkey in the group and she knew it.

“Whenever people came to shoot videos or take pictures, she’d love to go and meet them all. Any help with microphones or tripods – or any reason to get attention – there she’d be at the front of the queue.

“Bonnie arrived with us many years ago as a beautiful foal. She was inquisitive then and remained so until we lost her.

“Bonnie’s memory will remain strong with the team – she truly had the most amazing character and loving nature.”

Life at the sanctuary

Bonnie was a very tall, charming donkey with a twinkle in her eye.

This gorgeous donkey was born near Rochdale in Lancashire and lived with her mum Penny and friend Flash. Sadly, their loving owner became unwell and could no longer care for this lovely trio, and so it was that they arrived at The Donkey Sanctuary. Bonnie spent her early months with her mum until she was weaned. She was then moved to be with other youngsters in their paddock.

Despite being one of the largest donkeys in her group, Bonnie loved being centre of attention and would often manoeuvre herself through the herd so she was always first in line at meal times. She would often try to open the door as the grooms put out the food. We even had to ‘Bonnie-proof’ them!

Bonnie always got on with all her friends in Main Barn and would often get very protective of her smaller companions. She adored being fussed over and was known for trying to get a second turn before the grooming session was over. Sometimes she was a little too ‘helpful’, running off with brushes when they dropped on the floor or leaning over the grooms’ shoulders to see what they were doing.

Bonnie definitely had her heart in the right place, and she will be truly missed by her donkey friends in Main Barn, grooms, volunteers and visitors alike. Rest in peace our sweet Bonnie.

Note to Bonnie's adopters

We are so sorry to bring you this news so soon after many of you would have received a Valentine's card from Bonnie. We are all very shocked as Bonnie was such a healthy donkey and unfortunately her condition declined soon after the Valentine's card was sent.

If you’re worried about what this sad news means for your adoption then please be assured that there is no need for you to do anything. We will be writing to you very soon with more information about your adoption.

Thanks to your support, Bonnie lived a happy life at The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth, where she enjoyed the best care possible and a loving, secure environment.

Your ongoing support helps to ensure that thousands of other donkeys across the UK and further afield will be given the same opportunity for a life free from suffering and neglect.