A kind-hearted visitor approached us at an event to tell us about Rooster, a mini donkey he had met while working on a job site months earlier. Rooster had been living alone in a stall for the past seven years after losing his only companion, and it was clear he was deeply lonely and depressed. Wanting to help, we reached out to his owner and asked if they would consider surrendering him to a sanctuary where he could live out the rest of his life surrounded by love and companionship. After a few days of thought, they agreed.

We hitched up our mini horse trailer and set out to bring Rooster home. The entire ride back, he trembled like a leaf, leaving behind the only life he had ever known. When he arrived at the sanctuary, the sights, sounds, and movement of the farm overwhelmed him?it was a stark contrast to the years of solitude he had endured. But in time, Rooster?s curiosity got the best of him. Before we knew it, he was sneaking under fences just to be near the horses.

Rooster had never received veterinary care, and our team quickly discovered that his teeth had been severely neglected. Overgrown and sharp, they had caused painful ulcers in his mouth, making every bite of food agonizing. We immediately scheduled dental work, and once he was pain-free, he seemed like a new donkey. His eyes brightened, his energy returned, and his true personality began to shine.

Feeling stronger and more confident, Rooster was introduced to the herd a little earlier than planned?and he wasted no time making friends. He quickly bonded with our largest horse, Zeus! They have been inseparable ever since! Rooster absolutely loves to have snuggles with his human family, he has become such a beautiful part of Rewild and everyone who meets him!