UK’s largest animal rescue sees Devon’s Donkey Sanctuary play vital role

A major rescue operation that uncovered more than 450 animals living in “harrowing” conditions has seen the owner of a Nottinghamshire farm jailed for 12 months and banned from keeping animals for life.

The sentencing, which took place at Mansfield Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 18 September, follows a huge joint operation in November 2023 led by the RSPCA and supported by eight charities, including Sidmouth-based The Donkey Sanctuary.

Among the 450 animals seized were 29 donkeys, cared for with the expertise of The Donkey Sanctuary’s Head of Welfare and two senior advisers, who joined around 100 charity staff on site with Nottinghamshire Police.

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Many of the animals, which also included horses, dogs, cats, exotic birds and reptiles, were found in filthy sheds, barns and hutches.

Some were so sick they had to be put down immediately, including a female donkey who had a young foal at her side.

Hannah Bryer, Head of Welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “It was utterly heartbreaking to see the conditions and suffering these animals had endured.

Sadly, one donkey was so severely underweight and in pain that euthanasia was the kindest option. Her foal is now thriving with other young donkeys, and we are working with the RSPCA to secure them a brighter future.”

The Donkey Sanctuary has taken in 12 donkeys left with chronic health problems, who will remain at the charity’s Devon headquarters for lifelong care.

Others are being rehabilitated and, where possible, rehomed in pairs through The Donkey Sanctuary’s rehoming scheme in partnership with the RSPCA.

Hannah added: “This case is a saddening reminder of the suffering donkeys face when their needs are neglected. We urge anyone struggling to care for their animals to reach out early. Compassion and responsibility must go hand in hand.”

The operation has already seen many of the rescued animals placed in safe new homes. RSPCA Inspector Laura Baker, who coordinated the operation, praised the public for coming forward: “We are grateful for the tip-off that allowed us to act. With the help of our charity partners, many of these animals are now recovering and enjoying much better lives.”

Exeter residents wishing to support the rehoming of rescued donkeys are encouraged to apply via The Donkey Sanctuary’s rehoming scheme.