Three neglected donkeys whose hooves had grown so long they were struggling to walk are now recovering thanks to our help.
Gilly, Holly and Snowy were rescued in December 2020, following a call from a concerned member of the public.
Their untreated hooves were 10 centimetres longer than they should have been, making it extremely difficult for the donkeys to walk around their home at a farm in Carlisle, Cumbria.
Sally Bamforth, one of our Donkey Welfare Advisers, said: “Even from a distance, you could see how abnormally long the donkeys’ hooves were, making it difficult for them to walk naturally. It was the worst example of foot neglect I have ever seen.
“When walking, they lifted their legs up much higher than would be usual to reduce the chance of their hooves catching the ground and clipping into the dirt.”
It was clear that Gilly, Holly and Snowy, had been suffering from neglect for some time for their feet to be so overgrown that all three would need urgent veterinary treatment.
The donkeys were also extremely overweight, as they had been left on a farm, to graze on acres of lush pasture, after their owners had to move due to a change in circumstances.
Donkeys are prone to obesity and their diets need careful management. Too much lush grass can cause weight gain as well as laminitis, a painful foot condition.
The donkeys were relinquished into our care with the collaboration of the owners and the RSPCA. The animals were transported to a holding base where they received expert veterinary and farriery treatment.
All three made good progress after arriving into our care. Sally said: “It is incredible to see the transformation of the donkeys’ hooves and how Gilly, Snowy and Holly are now moving about freely, without discomfort.
“Sadly situations like this are not uncommon. Lack of appropriate hoof care is still one of the most common welfare issues faced by donkeys in the UK today.
“Our welfare team works throughout Great Britain to offer free advice and information to donkey owners about the easy steps that can be taken to avoid this type of suffering.”
Looking to the future
Now more than a year on, the three donkeys have made excellent progress in the dedicated care of their grooms at The Donkey Sanctuary’s Brookfield Farm near Honiton.
Gilly, Holly and Snowy are now on long-term review, and despite still needing to shed some of their weight, it is hoped they will be suitable for rehoming in the future in a new Guardian home.
Help us to make a difference
With your support, we can be there for more donkeys like Gilly, Holly and Snowy.
