AN URGENT appeal was launched by Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary this evening (Monday) after one of their donkeys was found to have severe colic, which could be fatal.
Story updated below
One of the Sanctuary’s donkeys, Rupert, is suffering from a bad case of colic, and staff believe his gut is twisted.
He needs to be urgently sent to Liphook Equine Hospital so he can receive treatment.
The Donkey Sanctuary sent out an urgent plea on their Facebook page to anyone willing to give up their booked space after the earliest ferry available was 11pm.
Thankfully, a space has been found, and Rupert is currently awaiting the next ferry off the Island.
Rupert joined the Sanctuary early in 2020 along with his mother, Frida, after living together in the Dordogne region of France until their owner died.
They were rescued by the Flicka Foundation in Cornwall and brought to the UK.
The Flicka Foundation were full at the time and asked for the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary's help, who were delighted to offer them both a home.
Updating their Facebook page, the Sanctuary said: “Rupert is now waiting at the Wightlink ferry in Fishbourne, with a promise to get him on the next ferry.
“Thank you so much Wightlink and Red Funnel, and to everyone that has helped spread the word, made phone calls, sent messages and called in favours for us.
“We cannot thank you all enough for your help!”
Rupert still has the journey and treatment ahead of him, but he now has a better chance of making it.
The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary will update its page when staff know how he is doing.
UPDATE: Rupert has made it across to the mainland and to Liphook for treatment.
A spokesperson from the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary said:
He still has a difficult time ahead of him, and it is not guaranteed that he will make it through this, but he has been given the best chance that we can give him!
A very special thank you to Louisa Mills, her husband, and Scott who works for Wightlink, for being crucial in helping us arrange his transport.
He is in the best place he could be thanks to all of you. We will update you all again when we know more about his condition.
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