Donkey rescued from south Donegal farm dies after months of care

Susie, one of two donkeys rescued from a farm in south Donegal earlier this year, has died, the Donegal Donkey Sanctuary announced.

The donkeys were removed in early July with the assistance of Gardaí and a veterinarian after being found in horrific conditions, including severely overgrown hooves and injuries believed to be caused by crow attacks.

Both animals required extensive veterinary treatment, funded through an Emergency Rescue Appeal that raised over €30,000. Sanctuary co‑owner Sandra Curran described the rescue as one of the most distressing emergencies she and her husband Danny had attended.

Despite months of dedicated care, Susie’s condition deteriorated and she passed away, with the sanctuary stating that “her poor body had just had enough and no amount of love could keep her with us.”

Madeleine, the companion donkey, continues to thrive at the sanctuary, forming bonds with resident donkeys Binky and Quiney and receiving attention from visitors. The charity thanked supporters for their contributions to the intensive summer care.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Ann Perkas / Pexels.