Hearbreaking news: RIP Bella the donkey

She had been having a difficult week, but her passing has come as a shock to us all. Bella went down in the field and sadly passed away before the vet was able to reach the sanctuary.

Bella was one of Dave & Lianne’s very first rescues, arriving at Hopefield nearly 16 years ago when they took over the sanctuary. She was found in a terrible state while we were rescuing another donkey, Ned — pregnant, suffering from a severe skin condition, burdened with worms, and with badly overgrown feet. Not long after arriving and receiving the care she so desperately needed, Bella gave birth to her beautiful daughter, Peggy. We will be keeping a very close eye on Peggy over the coming weeks as the two were completely inseparable.

Bella’s journey is one of resilience, kindness, and the power of rescue. She knew love, safety, and peace here for so many years, and she will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Run free, sweet Bella