A DONKEY that was being treated by bighearted carers after she was found emaciated with open wounds has sadly died.
Donegal Donkey Sanctuary took Susie the donkey into its care for urgent medical attention in July.
The sanctuary’s owners revealed Susie had been attacked by birds which were eating her alive, while another donkey – called Madeleine – was found with her ears missing.
A spokesperson has now revealed: “This is the post that we hoped we would never have to make.
“We are heartbroken to report that our beautiful Susie has lost her battle and has passed to the rainbow bridge.
“Since her arrival with her friend Madeleine at the beginning of July, we have worked tirelessly to provide the care and comfort that she so deserved.
“It was incredible to witness her courage.
“Unfortunately, her poor body had just had enough and no amount of love could keep her with us.
“We are so sorry [for] Susie, but we will never forget the hours, days and weeks that we spent in your gentle company.
“Run free at the rainbow bridge beautiful girl. Until we meet again.”
Susie the donkey pictured with a rainbow in the background before her recent death. Photo: Donegal Donkey Sanctuary.
Susie the donkey when she arrived. Photo: Donegal Donkey Sanctuary.
Susie’s open wounds were described as “bigger than an adult male hand”.
Madeleine’s recovery is ongoing and the sanctuary expects that she will continue to get better.
The spokesperson said: “Madeleine continues to thrive and has formed a bond with long-term residents Binky and Quiney.
“She cannot get enough love and attention and is happy to greet visitors with a big hug.
“We are so grateful for her recovery and hopeful that she will live a long happy life here at the sanctuary.”
She added: “Thank you to everyone who has enquired about both girls over the summer months and also to those who made a visit to see them.
“The level of care that they needed has made us very quiet on social media recently.
“But we hope that you will understand that donkey care always takes priority and that’s just how it had to be.
“The yard is quieter [now without Susie] and our hearts are heavy.”
Donations can be made on the Emergency Rescue Appeal DDS gofundme.com website.
More than €30,000 has been raised of a €35,000 target.
