NEWS FEED
A little donkey spread festive cheer when he hoofed it into a Ferndown care home.
Dressed in a red Christmas blanket, Willow, a Mediterranean miniature donkey, was happy to be patted and even have his fur brushed at the Colten Care-owned Amberwood House in Ringwood Road.
Renowned for his gentle nature, 16-year-old Willow from The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, Devon, delighted resident Mouchke Belle, who was keen to brush his coat. She said, “He really is a beautiful creature. So soft and gentle. Grooming him has made my day.”
Connie Moody agreed: “He is simply gorgeous and so docile.”
Amberwood activities organiser Jan Burns, explained, “So many of our residents came along to see Willow today and were completely enchanted by him.
“There is something very festive about a donkey and Willow’s outfit was also a big hit, putting us all in a lovely, Christmassy mood.”
The Donkey Sanctuary charity cares for donkeys that have been rescued from cruelty and also those brought in by owners who are no longer able to care for them.
The donkeys are primarily used for riding therapy for children with additional needs but also as animal therapy for older people in care homes.
