The Donkey Sanctuary

Liscarroll, Co. Cork

Description

I nearly jump out of my skin. The sound is so loud and unexpected. It is the first time I've heard a donkey's bray, right up close and personal. "HEEEEEE-HAAAW, HEEE-HAAW, HEEE-HAAW!!" The sanctuary is a place where a donkey can bray to their heart's content.

It is a slice of heaven on earth for a donkey. The donkey charter grants to every donkey that enters the Sanctuary the right of life and the best possible care. Too often these creatures have been abused and neglected. They arrive in very poor condition, having labored for the people of Ireland, dragging carts and carrying peat. The Sanctuary grants them a full retirement of peace and freedom. It is dedicated to ensuring an end to their suffering and a beginning to a life of loving care.

In this safe haven, they come to life again. Each is a unique individual, with a mind of its own. Get to know the donkeys by taking the walkway around the Sanctuary. Plaques identifying the donkeys by name, photo, and a brief bio, are posted on the fences. Donkeys are very much like people. They develop very close bonds between each other, and if two friends arrive together, they are not separated at the Sanctuary.

Since 1987, the sanctuary has rescued over 2,400 donkeys. Over 600 have been placed in foster homes. You can adopt a donkey at the Sanctuary for a small donation that provides for their care.

How to get there

By car:

From Mallow, take N20 north to Buttevant, take R522 west to Liscarroll and follow signs to The Donkey Sanctuary. It is located on the R522 road outside Liscarroll heading to Dromcollogher.

By bus:

See www.buseireann.ie website for all current travel details and restrictions.

Opening times

Monday-Friday: 9AM to 4:30PM (last entry 4:15PM)

Weekends and Bank Holidays: 10AM to 5PM (last entry 4:45PM)

Closed for lunch each day from 1PM to 1:30PM

Admission fee

Free admission and parking. Donations are greatly appreciated.

Address

The Donkey Sanctuary

Liscarroll

Mallow

Co. Cork.

Tel: (0)22 48398

Email: donkey@indigo.ie

Web: www.thedonkeysanctuary.ie

Written by Liz O' Malley - Summer of Travel 2007