Donkeying around for Care Home residents on World Donkey Day

It was all abit Hee-Haw for residents at Buckingham Lodge in Watton and Downham Grange in Downham Market on World Donkey Day.

With a visit from Karen Rust Donkey Sanctuary founder of Donkey’s Therapy and Fun based in Great Massingham, Nr Kings Lynn and her wonderful team of volunteers who visited the homes with Donkey’s Choccy, Lulu and Jack.

Karen explained how it all started 16 years ago when she bought 2 donkeys for her grandson, but since then the “animal” family has grown to 11 donkeys, 4 sheep, and 2 miniature ponies all supported by an army of volunteers.

Residents were enthralled as the miniature breed donkeys trotted their way around the homes visiting residents nursed in bed in their rooms

For Downham Grange resident Dorothy Hadley this brought back wonderful memories of her own Donkey Noah, whilst Logan Grant from Intergenerational Friend in Deed children’s group at Buckingham Lodge who just happened to be visiting on the day also got to cuddle and stroke the animals up close as well.

“The donkeys were amazingly patient creatures, “said Marcia Hughes Community Engagement Coordinator who organized the days “but very intelligent, definitely hide your polo mints away”

Donkey Day is a World annual event celebrated each year on 8th May) which celebrates donkeys and highlights their contributions to human societies, whilst advocating for better welfare standards and protections for these animals.