Pepe Finds His Forever Haven at Rancho Burro ❤️
Our hearts grew even bigger this month with the arrival of Pepe, a precious 3 year old donkey! Back in June, a friend alerted us to Pepe's situation. Abandoned in a junkyard near our Assistant Director Laura's home, he had only weeds for food and limited access to water plus he didn't have any shelter from the rain. The "owner" mistakenly believed Pepe could survive on weeds, leaving the kind but overwhelmed guardian struggling to care for him.
We stepped in and were not there to judge, but to help and patiently educated the guardian on proper donkey care. They replaced Pepe's “weed diet” with proper nourishing options and ensured he always had fresh water. We also offered a trusted vet list for his medical needs. We continued to check in weekly to make sure the guardian was navigating his way ok with Pepe.
Sadly, the original owner abandoned Pepe, leaving the guardian feeling helpless. Finally, on March 25th, they reached out to us, knowing Pepe deserved better. Part of our dedicated team – Jim, Carlen, Laura, Nancy, and Denise – sprang into action. Bringing Pepe home took patience, gentle coaxing and a light sedation, but finally, he loaded and arrived home safe at Rancho Burro Tuesday, March 26.
Pepe's story is a reminder of the importance of responsible donkey ownership. The guardian's desire to help and our team's unwavering support, even before Pepe came to us, show how much he meant to everyone involved. Now, his journey to recovery continues as he recently underwent castration and is healing very well.
Plan the work, work the plan!
We know Pepe hasn't seen another donkey since leaving his mother, so reintroduction to the herd needs a gentle touch. He was quite overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of our herd calling out to him from afar when arriving at the sanctuary. To ease his anxiety and allow him to form friendships at his own pace, we've set up a separate enclosure in the front pasture. This will allow Pepe to get accustomed to their presence gradually, through sight, smell, and sound, before any face-to-face interactions.
At Rancho Burro, we believe every donkey deserves a comfortable home and life. Pepe now has a nice big stall and shelter of his own inside our front pasture. No more rain, no more harsh elements! He can relax and feel secure whenever he needs a quiet space.
Arturo, our Sanctuary Operations Manager, speaks fluent Spanish, Pepe's comfort language. They've already formed a special bond, exploring the sanctuary grounds together. Our volunteers shower him with affection, and Pepe feels safe and loved as he is starting to feel right at home.
To give Pepe the lifetime of care he deserves, your support is crucial. A donation to Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary will help us provide Pepe with love, nutritious food, and medical attention.
We're so grateful to share Pepe's journey and thankful he is with his forever family.
Stay tuned for updates on this sweet boy as he integrates into our herd and thrives with his loving sanctuary family!
⭐
• Jim J.
• Susan & Mike S.
˙ Rebecca for her Birthday!
˙ Betty and Patty
Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary
info@ranchoburrodonkeysanctuary.org
805-710-8445 • Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 • USA
• Open by appointment •
Rancho Burro is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization # 81-4256555 All donations are 100% TAX deductible.
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