A rescue that changed a family farm
Sandra and Danny Curran founded Donegal Donkey Sanctuary in 2010 at Castledooey near Raphoe, Ireland. Its beginnings followed the rescue of a donkey found tied to a scrapped car in bogland. As the family learned of more neglected animals locally, their farm developed into a sanctuary for donkeys needing safety and care.
Different histories call for different futures
Residents may arrive after abandonment or abuse, or because an owner’s age, health or finances make continued care impossible. The sanctuary works towards a safe long-term home, which may be on site or through fostering. Its account of Teddy explains how repeated fear during attempted moves led to a decision to keep him where he felt secure with his companions.
Companionship shapes fostering decisions
Donkeys commonly form close bonds, so fostering usually involves a pair. A single donkey may sometimes join a home with an existing donkey, depending on the match. The programme therefore considers relationships as well as available space. Applicants must be able to make daily care a continuing part of their lives, rather than simply offer an unused field.
A suitable home needs more than grazing
The fostering guidance asks for appropriate grazing land, secure permanent fencing, clean water, a stable or shelter and a hard-standing area. Carers need to live close enough to visit daily and manage the environment safely. The sanctuary’s story of Timmy, born in 2016 and helped by specially fitted shoes, also illustrates why individual care needs deserve close attention.
Symbolic adoption supports residents who stay
The sanctuary’s adoption scheme is sponsorship: the featured donkeys remain in its care. Contributions support veterinary attention, hoof trimming, bedding, feed and equine dentistry. This offers a way to help without taking donkeys home. Consult current visitor arrangements or speak with the team about fostering; sponsorship and a placement on your own land are different commitments. Official programme information · AnimalProtech map.
Frequently asked questions
- Does AnimalProtech verify Donegal Donkey Sanctuary?
- AnimalProtech organizes public information and helps review community corrections, but each donation, adoption, or contact should be verified directly through the animal rescuer's or organization's official channels.
- How can I contact Donegal Donkey Sanctuary?
- Use the public channels saved on this page and confirm that the opened profile matches Donegal Donkey Sanctuary, the location Raphoe - Ulster - Ireland, and the displayed identifiers.
- Is it safe to donate or adopt using only this page?
- No. Use this page as a starting point, then confirm identity, need, accountability, and public history before donating, sending documents, or adopting.
- How can I correct incomplete or outdated information?
- Use the contribution form at the end of the page and send verifiable public links. Do not send personal documents, private addresses, or sensitive third-party data.