Donkey Sanctuary struggles as animal surrenders surge and re-homer numbers dwindle

The charity equates the drop in those willing to rehome rescued donkeys with the rise in the cost of living being endured by families who'd previously been willing to help, but don’t have the money to do that now.

Up until the end of October, The Donkey Sanctuary responded to 905 calls to help donkeys, which is up from 721 for the whole of last year – a 26% increase. Picture: Dan Linehan

The rising cost of heating and animal feed is having a major impact on the Donkey Sanctuary charity which is taking in more animals than ever and facing a significant drop in the number of people willing to ‘rehome’ them.

The sanctuary, which has its Irish headquarters in Liscarroll, North Cork, is appealing for donations to stem the tide.