Our welfare team in Ireland introduced Maggie and Holly to each other last year. One year after their successful pairing, the two donkeys are now firm friends and enjoying their time at their Guardian Home.

Maggie's story

Before their introduction, Maggie lived alone at owner Siobhan's home in Kerry. She had become Maggie's permanent guardian and was looking for some support and advice to ensure she could meet all of Maggie's needs. This led to Siobhan reaching out to The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland.

Donkey Welfare Adviser, Ciara O'Kelly, says: "We became aware of Maggie when Siobhan got in touch with some questions. We could see how well cared for the donkey was right away, and we worked closely with Siobhan to provide all the advice and support she needed. However, Maggie was still living alone, and companionship is so important for donkeys."

With this in mind, the welfare team knew that they needed to find Maggie a friend as soon as possible.

Maggie and Holly mutual grooming
Maggie and Holly at their Guardian Home in their stable
Maggie and Holly at their Guardian Home with vegetation in the background

Holly's story

The welfare team received a call about a mare abandoned on a farm. When they arrived at the farm, the donkey's health was stable. However, if the mare were to be left outside exposed to the elements, she would have started to suffer. In Ireland, many donkeys are abandoned without a microchip each year. Therefore, if there is no owner, our Irish welfare team work together to find a solution.

In this case, Ciara O'Kelly knew that Maggie's owner was looking for a companion for her donkey. After some discussion, it was suggested that the two donkeys might make the perfect bonded pair.

When Maggie met Holly

Last November, the welfare team transported the abandoned donkey to Siobhan's home in Kerry, and as it was nearly Christmas, she named the donkey Holly. Everyone looked forward to seeing the two mares meet for the first time and hoped they would become friends. As soon as Siobhan and the team introduced them, everyone got the positive outcome they hoped for.

Maggie and Holly quickly became great companions. Siobhan says: "They are so funny to watch and will do everything together, and they will always stand at the gate to bray loudly." Now together, Maggie and Holly live a fulfilled life and remind us all of the value of companionship.