Source:  News Release

Donkey charity welcomes 200th mule resident

International animal welfare charity The Donkey Sanctuary is this week welcoming its 200^th mule into its care. 

The charity, which works to alleviate the suffering of donkeys and mules in 28 countries worldwide, has seen an increase in the number of mules and hinnies needing homes over recent months.  Some of these have been rescued by the charity after being found neglected or abandoned, whilst others have come from loving homes that are no longer able to care for them.  All now have a sanctuary for life.

Chad and Henry, a hinny and mule pair, have recently taken up residence at The Donkey Sanctuary’s headquarters in Sidmouth, Devon, in the hope that a suitable foster home will come forward and be able to offer them the one-to-one attention that they so enjoy.

Ten year old mule, Chad, is the result of breeding between a male donkey and a female horse, whereas his eight year old bay-coloured hinny friend, Henry, is the offspring of a male horse and female donkey.  Neither mules nor hinnies can reproduce, making them rarer in numbers than horses or donkeys.

Emma Gill, PR Officer for The Donkey Sanctuary, says:

“Chad and Henry first came into the care of The Donkey Sanctuary in 2005, and have formed a strong friendship.  Unlike the stereotype that characterises mules and hinnies as stubborn and strong-willed, they are two of the most gentle-natured and friendly animals I have ever met.  The right foster home will be so lucky to have them.

“Our foster scheme finds loving homes for animals in our care who, like Chad and Henry, would benefit from the kind of one-to-one attention private homes can provide. Donkeys, mules, hinnies and in some cases ponies in our care are carefully matched with prospective homes to ensure a happy future for both animals and foster owners.

“As a registered charity we are always grateful for any assistance that helps us to care for our growing family of rescued and unwanted donkeys and mules. Fostering is one of the most amazing things you can do to help us both financially and in terms of freeing up our staff to provide more specialist care to animals that need it most.  To find out more about our foster scheme, please visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/fostering.”

Barnmice News is brought to you by EnglishHabit.com, your complete online English tack shop.