Closed to visitors until the Spring!
Extraordinary wet weather has made it impossible to open to visitors!
We would love you to visit the donkeys and support the work we do, we would normally open to visitors Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and some Bank Holidays, but since the extra challenge’s this December weather has brought us we have had to make the decision to close early. The ground is saturated and the donkeys are unable to use their paddocks and are having to use the hard standing areas visitors would normally use.
We know many of you wanted to visit during the festive season and we are sorry if our decision has affected your plans but we are committed to donkey care and must put their needs first.
It looks like we have some brighter days forecast ahead but sadly will have little effect on the ground conditions.
Why are we so concerned about wet ground conditions?
We must remember donkeys originated from dry arid countries and were only brought to this country by the Romans as they were used to carry goods and equipment. Their hooves are absorbent, looking to soak up moisture in order to keep them in good condition in dry conditions, but in our current climate they soak up too much and become softer often leading to issues such as Seedy Toe and Foot Abscesses.
To manage the problem we try and keep them out of wet areas, give them access to hardstanding areas, footpaths, sandpits and deep straw beds in their houses.
You can help!
The special care we give the donkeys is only made possible with your love and support, for ways you can help please see the Supporting Us page of our website. https://www.haylingdonkeys.co.uk/supporting-us/