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Two Beloved Members Of Isle Of Wight Donkey Sanctuary Herd Say Their Final Goodbye

Two much loved animals from the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary sadly said their final goodbyes at the weekend.

On the evening of Saturday (March 25), Jill and Angelica peacefully uttered their final hee-haws, having been closely monitored for some time due to failing health as a result of old age.

Jill has been part of the OAP herd for many years and in her later years was unable to eat as well as our younger donkeys due to dental and other internal issues.

She also enjoyed pushing her way to the front of the medicine scoop queue, even if she had already had hers!

A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary commented:

"Jill insisted she have more, even trying to nibble the staff to persuade them, but this didn't work very well and she had very few teeth left to use, so it was described by sanctuary as more of a 'gummy kiss'.

"Despite her age related stiffness, she would often enjoy trotting around the field with the other OAP's, as if she was a youngster again. Jill was a joy to be around and will be deeply missed.

"In consultation with our vet, surrounded by our dedicated farm team, Jill was helped to pass."

Angelica passed during the same weekend, and was considered one of the cheekiest donkeys of the entire herd.

A member of the team recalled:

"Angelica’s pretty name could fool people — she was angelic and also had a mischievous side — she would often seize any opportunity she could to sneak through an open gate!

"Affectionately known by staff as 'Jellybean', our little Angelica passed peacefully on Saturday evening, surrounded by our vet, our dedicated team and her mini-herd friends – Bella, Wizzy and Geraldine.

"She received the very best of care and will be greatly missed."

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