Joy, one of our grooms at Newton Farm, is a very warm lady who I love chatting with as she talks so passionately about the donkeys she cares for. I managed to give her a call today and see how my special friends Laurel, Hardy and Tim are doing. I was delighted to hear nothing but good news.
“For me, it’s wonderful to be able to help with their recovery,” said Joy. “I feel they appreciate what we are trying to do for them. Despite craving our attention, Laurel was quite nervous if we had to catch him and his legs would shake and tremble. But he’s used to us now and in fact all three seem much more at ease and brighter in themselves.”
Regular foot trimmings
Laurel, Hardy and Tim have all had their feet trimmed by the farrier, who, in Joy’s words, has done “an incredible job”. These were complicated trims, particularly in Laurel’s case as they were so overgrown with the typical ‘Turkish slipper’ appearance, but fortunately none of the donkeys have any permanent damage. A little bute (painkiller) and a few days later, they were all used to their new feet and can now look forward to the regular trims they need.
Doctor's orders
Joy clipped out their coats yesterday and discovered they are all much thinner than anyone thought. But their food is being managed properly now and the extra feeds they receive should help put some weight back on in no time.
“I’m giving them a bath this afternoon,” Joy told me. “They’re all covered in lice and dermatitis so on doctor's orders they are having a medicated bath which will help soothe all the itchiness (and that will hopefully stop Tim knocking over the wheelbarrow so he can have a scratch!). When I have rinsed them off, I will towel dry them and I think they will feel so much better for it.”
My conversation ended with Joy’s assurance to me that Laurel, Hardy and Tim are taking everything in their stride. She said “I think they are thankful that someone is helping them at last.”
Next week I am rather excited as I get to see Laurel, Hardy and Tim for the second time so I will give you an update then.
In the meantime, have you seen the a poem, on our Donkey poems forum from a supporter in the USA, dedicated to Laurel, Hardy, Tim and to Joy who was featured in their recent video clip.
Help us fund rescue cases like this
If you feel you can help us by giving a donation, we will indeed be grateful and Laurel, Hardy and Tim and others like them can be guaranteed a lifetime of care and love.
2,107 people have read our rescue story - if everyone had donated £1, what a difference this could make to donkeys in need.
What an appropriate name to the dear woman who inspired and who does indeed bring joy to Laurel, Hardy and Tim. Thank you Joy and Dawn.
My hand to my heart always. - Jenny B.
Just read your comment and while I was reading the update the same thought crossed by mind about Joy. Unfortunately I missed Dawn's name off but they must be feeling Joy in their new Dawn.
Will Tim be staying at the donkey Sanctuary? Keep up the great work!
I am pleased to assure you that despite being a pony, Tim has the same guarantees of loving, expert care for the rest of his life that Laurel and Hardy will enjoy. We do occassionaly take in ponies or horses in exceptional circumstances such as this one. Laurel, Hardy and Tim had been kept in such a small space for at least six months and it would have been hugely stressful if we had seperated them.
What good news.
I'm sure he will love it - but when he sees all the residents I fear he may wonder why he has such short ears!
It has made my day to read that Tim also has a home for life.
A heartwarming update on the new arrivals. I am glad to hear that things are going so well.