El Refugio del Burito

EL REFUGIO DEL BURRITO

A SAFE HAVEN FOR DONKEYS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EL REFUGIO DEL BURRITO They’re longeared, velvety, and affectionate, and they have been the subject of everything from legendary poems to animations. Donkeys are some of the cutest creatures on the planet, and it is devastating to think that so many of them are abandoned and mistreated. Thankfully, across Spain, there are caring groups who have set up sanctuaries where donkeys can thrive, socialise, and receive the care they need. One of these havens is El Refugio del Burrito, which comprises two centres – one in Badajoz and the other in Fuente de Piedra, Málaga. The refuge’s work is crucial and, at times, a matter of urgency. There are days in which dozens of donkeys are abandoned and by the time the sanctuary is notified, many may need intensive care. This is where you can help – by making donations and spreading the word about this special place.

UK TIES

El Refugio del Burrito is a subsidiary of The Donkey Sanctuary – a UK charity that has been working to protect mules and donkeys for over five decades. The ultimate goal of this organisation is to create a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering; one in which their contribution to humankind is fully valued.

The refuge also investigates cases of abuse or neglect, and attends to public complaints concerning donkeys and mules. It is actively involved in causes that encourage the application and improvement of existing laws regarding animal welfare and the promotion of awareness campaigns and education about responsible equine ownership and expert care.

BUILDING GREATER AWARENESS

The refuge educates owners, veterinarians, farriers and other professionals and associations on donkey and mule care, sharing The Professional Handbook of the Donkey. This and other publications provide a wealth of information on an array of topics – including nutrition, oral health, wound management, foot care, common infections, and nursing care.

WHAT A DONKEY NEEDS

The team at El Refugio del Burrito provides information on how to boost donkeys’ physical and mental health. It is important to earn the trust of these loyal animals, provide them with a wide range of activities that mentally stimulate them, and make sure they have enough exercise.

It is also relevant to remember that in their natural environment, donkeys can spend up to 16 hours a day roaming over varied landscapes in search of food and watering holes. If you are caring for domesticated donkeys, give them enough space to roam, and provide them with different zones in which to graze.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

The most meaningful way you can help is via donations. Did you know that with just €3, you can buy a donkey the medicine it needs for seven days, or that €5 covers the cost of feeding one donkey with hay for seven days?

You can make donations via Visa and Mastercard, Paypal, EURO cheque, or set up a standing order with your bank so that a monthly amount gets sent to the refuge.

If you want to make a regular commitment, consider adopting a donkey for just €5 a month.

If you wish to take a donkey home as a pet, you will need to have the right set-up. For instance, donkeys require a minimum of 250m2 of land to graze. A Donkey Welfare Advisor will discuss this and other matters with you so that the move is seamless.

You can invest time in one or more donkeys by becoming an ‘exclusive adopter and protector’ of one or more donkeys, visiting them often and taking an active interest in them. You can also leave part of your legacy to the refuge, or simply make donations in kind. The refuge always needs items like blankets, rakes and shovels, brushes, combs, and leggings for children (size eight to 10). The next time a loved one has a birthday or special occasion, consider giving them items from the refuge’s gift shop, so you can kill two birds with one stone.

Do not hesitate to report any instances of donkey cruelty if you witness it. The website has a checklist you can complete online or post to the refuge, and you can also call the team directly. If possible, take photographs of the donkeys and landmarks, so the refuge can act quickly.