It has been a while since I have had an absolute favourite donkey at the Sanctuary, because I think they are all wonderful but now I have two! Laurel and Hardy.
They finally arrived to Devon on Tuesday 15th December, along with Tim, their Shetland pony companion and his new pal Gypsy. But I’m afraid you can’t get too excited just yet. They have to spend six weeks in our new arrivals unit so they are still out of the public eye so to speak.
Now I have been following Laurel, Hardy and Tim since their rescue in July and to see them come off the lorry on Tuesday afternoon was quite something.
As I mentioned in my last blog, they look absolutely brilliant and I really was thrilled to see them here in Sidmouth. It's ‘hats off’ to the team at Newton Farm (our holding base in Derbyshire) for the incredible work they have done to bring these donkeys and Tim back to the handsome, healthy animals they deserve to be.
I was lucky enough to watch the discovery unfold as Laurel and Hardy first explored their new home. Hardy was quite scared at first and would not leave Laurel’s side; it made me realise that these two donkeys have a very strong bond.
The next day, I returned to see them being turned out into their new paddock, which is rather large! It was a magical moment when the gate was opened.
They both ran to the middle of the field, turned around and stood proud, as if to stake their territory! They puffed out their chests and stood firmly with their ears forward. Happy stuff I tell you as it was a far cry from their behaviour when we first rescued them.
Then Hardy realised there were other donkeys in the neighbouring fields and began braying, which then set off all the other donkeys. Wow, just lovely.
Tomorrow (23rd December) I will be visiting Laurel, Hardy and co, to put together a new film, and as soon as they move out of the new arrivals unit, I will be blogging to let you all know.
Oh, and by the way, you will all be pleased to know their story has been documented by the television series Animals 24/7 which broadcasts on BBC 1. We expect it to be some time later in 2010 though.
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What a happy ending to this tragic story. With your care they are now bright and happy and loving their new surrounding. Hope to see them next year when I wll be a donkey carer for the day again. Happy Christmas and New Year to all at the Donkey Sanctuary and of course all the donkeys.
Thank you Dawn for the update on Laurel, Hardy and Tim my Three Graces. I can't wait to meet them in May for International Donkey Week. Such a great job Joy has done, she is a true magician! and one of my all time human heros. I am looking forward to the film, all of you at the Sanctuary teach all of us the sacred art of life.
With stars shining bright,
Jenny B.