Keep up-to-date with all our latest news here in the UK and from projects around the world.

African donkey showing signs of dullness and inappetence

Equine influenza epidemic in West Africa

13 February 2019
The Donkey Sanctuary and its partners are warning of a potential disease epidemic in West Africa, as Nigeria declares an outbreak of Equine Influenza, a highly contagious disease that affects all equines.
South West Tourism award

Bronze for The Donkey Sanctuary in South West tourism awards

11 February 2019
The Donkey Sanctuary has won a Bronze award in the prestigious South West Tourism Excellence Awards within the ‘Large Attraction of the Year’ category at a ceremony held in Bristol on 7 February 2019.
Sir Hugo Swire MP, Mike Baker, Ian Cawsey

East Devon MP visits The Donkey Sanctuary

5 February 2019
The Donkey Sanctuary welcomed the Rt Hon Sir Hugo Swire to its international headquarters in Sidmouth last week, where he met the charity’s chief executive officer Mike Baker and was given a tour of the sanctuary.
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.
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.
A placeholder image - the official donkey sanctuary icon on a blue background

Hundreds of animals removed from Surrey farm

10 January 2019
On Wednesday 9 January, The Donkey Sanctuary was involved in an RSPCA-led operation at a farm in Ripley, Surrey. RSPCA officers joined Surrey Police to execute a warrant at the site under the Animal Welfare Act. The operation saw the removal of 204 animals, including eight donkeys, 123 horses and 59 dogs, due to welfare concerns. The investigation is now ongoing so unfortunately, we cannot go into any further details at this time.
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.
Working donkeys in Ethiopia carrying water

Gangs stealing donkeys from Ethiopia for slaughter in Kenya

8 January 2019
A shocking new investigation has revealed that Kenya is acting as a trade hub for donkeys smuggled in across the borders of its neighbouring countries after its own donkey population has been run dry.
DAT donkey Socrates eye

Donkeys and dragons help bereaved families

8 January 2019
We collaborated with Pete’s Dragons, an Exmouth-based charity, to provide an unforgettable experience for local families bereaved by suicide.
Daphne and Murphy settle in at Donkey Sanctuary Ireland

An astounding recovery for Daphne and Murphy

2 January 2019
After being rescued, Daphne and Murphy have overcome the odds to not only survive, but thrive in their new life at The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland.