Out of all of The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth’s European organisations, Donkey Sanctuary (Cyprus) has the highest percentage of old donkeys. Over 70% are over 20 and half of those are over 25!. Narky and Lofou are our oldest and are both well into their 40s! A lot of the donkeys that come into the sanctuary were working donkeys still used in the hill villages. It’s not only the donkeys that get older, the owners do too and relinquish them to us as they are unable to look after them anymore..

Whilst thinking about this, we realised that all except one of the farm staff and volunteers are over 40. Could it be the sunshine of Cyprus!!

So where are the younger donkeys? We believe that younger donkeys, a bit like children and teenagers, have very active minds and bodies, so if we know of a young donkey needing a home we will often put the owner in contact with someone who is looking for a donkey. The benefit of this is that the donkey will have an active life and therefore keep fit. Also, we know where the donkey is and are there to help and advice. Over the last couple of years we’ve noticed an increase in the number of calls we get from owners asking for our advice. This can range from asking us how to treat a minor wound to details of a vet or farrier.

Just like us, keep active, take care of your health and live longer!