The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada; Rescue Rehabilitation and Compassion
Nestled into quiet country pastures just outside of Guelph, Ontario is a unique animal oasis providing love and care to animals in need. Founded in 1992, the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada provides a lifelong home to donkeys, mules and hinnies who have been abused, neglected, or whose owners can no longer provide proper care. The sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates donkeys in need and serves as a place to educate the public about the equine industry, the unique traits and needs of donkeys and donkey-hybrids, and promotes the responsible stewardship of these gentle animals through education.
History of the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada was founded in 1992, and established as a registered charity shortly thereafter. Founder Sandra Pady had fostered three donkeys several years prior, and was immediately drawn to the donkeys’ gentle and restful presence. The first animal rescued by Sandra was named Sebastian; a donkey who was purchased by a farmer to protect his goats, and when ineffective at this task, was confined to a small stall alone. After the purchase and rescue of Sebastian, Sandra looked into the possibility of the family farm becoming a sanctuary, reaching out to Dr. Elizabeth Svendsen, founder of the Donkey Sanctuary in Great Britain, which is the world’s largest donkey sanctuary. With her help, guidance, advice and encouragement, the Donkey Sanctuary was born.
In September 2017, the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada became the first ever equine sanctuary in Canada to receive accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting animal rescue and rehabilitation centres around the world. Through a demanding evaluation process, which includes meeting rigorous standards in housing, veterinary care, nutrition requirements, and rescue policies, the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada received this unique distinction. The GFAS is the only globally recognized organization to validate the quality of animal sanctuaries, and the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada proved their commitment to their beloved donkeys by meeting this high standard of care.
Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
A visit to the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada is both a fun and rewarding experience. The sanctuary has Open Days where visitors can purchase tickets online in advance to visit the farm. Alternatively, you can book a private, expert-guided tour for a more in-depth and personalized visit. During every visit you’ll be able to tour the different barns and paddocks, learn how the animals are cared for, discover the dynamics of donkey groupings, and enjoy the different personalities of these gentle creatures.
The sanctuary is lucky to have a great group of volunteers and staff who can answer any questions about donkeys, mules and hinnies during your visit, and offer some inspiring insight into their origins, as well as their rescue and rehabilitation stories. You’ll learn how complex their social groupings are, and how each individual donkey requires special care and attention based on their history and personalities.
In the main barn there is a presentation during each Open Day session, detailing the history of the farm and providing educational information about donkeys, and donkey-hybrids. There are also many educational resources inside you can explore on your own, as well as the donkey adoption wall; where you can learn about donkeys waiting to be adopted.
Where is the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada is located on a beautiful farm in Puslinch Ontario. It is only 15 minutes drive from Guelph, 30 minutes from the Kitchener/Waterloo region and a 80-minite drive from Toronto. Due to its rural location, it is best accessed by car (or bike if you live nearby and like long country rides!).
How to Help the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
There are several ways you can help the sanctuary achieve its mission of rescue, rehabilitation and education of donkeys in need.
Visit During Open Days or Book a Private Tour
We highly recommend a visit to the farm during their Open Days. Not only will you gain a wealth of knowledge about donkeys and get some adorable photos, but you’ll truly be able to understand the importance of the sanctuary’s work first-hand. Watching these gentle creatures thrive in their new home will provide you with a sense of comfort and hope.
Check out more information for the 2023 season and book your visit.
Shop at the Long Ears Boutique
No visit to the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada is complete without a stop at Long Ears Boutique, where you can pick up some great donkey souvenirs. There is something for everyone, from stuffed animals and kids’ books, to Christmas ornaments, mugs, jewelry and donkey art, with all proceeds benefiting donkeys in need. You can also order items online for gifts throughout the year.
Sponsor a Donkey or Make a Donation
Making a one-time or monthly donation to the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada will ensure the continued work of this important rescue center. Donations are used to help rescue donkeys and mules who are neglected, and provide food, medicine, vet and farrier services, shelters, and fencing for the farm. They are also used to educate those in the equine industry about donkey care to prevent the animals from ending up in an unfavourable and unsuitable environment for their needs. Donors also receive a discount to Open Days, which is even more incentive to make a donation before your visit.
There is also the opportunity to sponsor a donkey, which is great for those who want to connect with an individual animal. A sponsorship will help provide medical recovery, rehabilitation and ongoing care to a donkey or mule in need. Sponsorships are $75 annually or $10 monthly and include a certificate of sponsorship, an adorable picture and bio of your chosen donkey, and a yearly update on their progress. If you’re looking for a present for an animal lover, sponsoring a donkey for a friend or family member is always a welcome gift.
Find out more about sponsoring a donkey or making a donation.
Volunteer
The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada relies heavily on its network of dedicated and engaged volunteers to complete their important work. From day-to-day chores and gardening, to event assistance and various committee opportunities, volunteering is a great way to give back while helping a worthwhile cause. You can check out all the current volunteer opportunities here.
PACE for the Donkeys; 5K Trail Run and Walk
Every year the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada holds its PACE for the Donkeys, 5 km trail run and walk. The event takes place through the paddocks and nature trails of the farm, and is a great event for avid runners, and those looking to give back to a great cause with family and friends. The event is the biggest fundraising event of the year for the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, and all proceeds go towards protecting vulnerable donkeys and mules in need. Best part is you’ll have donkeys on the sidelines cheering you on from the paddocks nearby!
Click here for information on this the 2023 event being held September 24th.
