Islanders go bray-zy for donkey fundraiser

Tuesday 23 November 2021

Islanders have raised nearly £3,000 to help pay for the treatment of a donkey who was rescued from the Italian meat market by an animal-loving respite centre.

Ethel found her 'forever home' at Chestnut Farm, based at Ouaisne, after being saved by Pegasus, a French sanctuary.

Run by Tutela Jersey, which provides support services for people with autism and other complex needs, ‘Chestnut Farm’ is “a new kind of respite centre” where islanders can enjoy activities such pet therapy, horse riding, yoga and gardening. 

Pictured: Ethel was rescued by Chestnut Farm, which is based in Ouaisne. 

It also gives animals “a new lease of life, a safe place filled with joy and of course unlimited love, cuddles, and attention."

Among the animals who now call Chestnut Farm a home is Ethel, a donkey rescued from the Italian meat market, which islanders may have seen trotting along St. Brelade’s Bay, or popping down to Portlet for her daily walk.

While she arrived at Chestnut Farm “frightened and nervous”, Ethel has since made a lot of progress, thanks in part to her love for Emmet, another rescue donkey, whose side she never leaves.

“The pair are inseparable and never more than a few feet apart,” Vicky Boarder wrote. 

Vicky recently issued a call to animal lovers in a bid to raise £3,000 to cover Ethel’s veterinary and travel bills.

“Sadly, Ethel has a large growth on her nose and another under her leg, these require treatment at a UK veterinary hospital,” Vicky wrote on Ethel’s JustGiving page. 

“Without treatment Ethel’s life and rehabilitation will never be truly fulfilled, her paradise is within grasp and treatment will allow her to reach it.”

The Chestnut Farm Team shared the fundraising page, adding: “Please guys, help to give Ethel the life she deserves!”

Launched just five days, the fundraising page is just under £100 away from hitting its target.