The donkeys we use are carefully chosen for their calm and patient temperament and impeccable behaviour. They must genuinely enjoy human interaction.
In addition to these basic characteristics, we maintain a high level of training, making full use of the facilities we have here at The Donkey Sanctuary (for example steps, offices, visitors, etc to ensure that our donkeys are comfortable with any eventuality they are likely to meet during their work). The safety of both those we visit and our donkeys are of paramount importance and never is a donkey subjected to go or behave in any situation that may cause it to be nervous or stressed.
Abbie was born in 1990 and has been a member of the Education and Activities team since 2008. She is a very girly donkey who has her own pink head collar and loves cuddles and kisses.
Abbie came over from our Irish sanctuary with her foal at foot and before this belonged to two young girls who use to ride her but then outgrow her. Her best friends in the education and activities donkeys are Tierra and Dixie.
Barney was born in 2000 and has been a member of the Education and Activities team since 2008. He is a very cheeky chap who likes to be nosey and be the star of the show.
Barney is used for most events but he just loves being with the scouts and playing football. He came into the Sanctary locally and used to show when he was younger. Barney is friends with everybody in the team and never likes to be left out!
Bramble was born in 2002 and has been a member of the Education and Activities team since January 2011.
He is very enthusiastic about working with people and always wants to be picked out for cuddles and kisses.
Dixie was born in 1982 and has been a member of the Education and Activities team since 2008. Dixie came into the Sanctuary in 2002 from Scotland.
He loves his food and we sometimes find him on the wrong side of the fence grazing on extra grass! He is a big softy and loves playing with the other donkeys.
Dixie is semi-retired as he's been part of the team for a number of years and has been one of the best when it comes to working with children.
Jasper was born in 2002 and has been working with the Education and Activities team since January 2011.
Jasper is very closely bonded with Bramble and sometimes will be seen holding onto Bramble's neck for comfort and reassurance, which causes no pain to Bramble.
Mopsy was born in 1999 and has been part of the Education and Activities team since 2010.
She is a very sweet and loving donkey but can sometimes be a bit shy. Since Mopsy has been with us she has developed a friendship with Joseph and seems to be very happy.
Shirgar was born in 1980 and has been part of the Education and Activities team since 2007having come into the Sanctuary with three other donkeys.
Shirgar is a celebrity at the Sanctuary and is well known by most of the staff! He is the oldest and wisest of the group and these days only takes part in special occasions! Shirgar has been to weddings and every year visits Exeter Cathedral for Palm Sunday.
