Cute: Some of the donkeys on show at last year's Donkey Shelter open day. Photos: Monique Preston
Affectionate animals: The Donkey Shelter at Tongala will throw open its gates for its annual open day on Sunday, December 4.
Photo by
Monique Preston
Have you ever wanted to see lots of donkeys up close and have the chance to pat them?
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If so, the annual open day at the Donkey Shelter at Tongala on Sunday, December 4, is the place to be.
The shelter is home to about 200 donkeys — spread over two properties — and the open day helps raise funds for their care.
The shelter takes in donkeys that are sick or have been surrendered for a variety of reasons, and is the only specialist rescue operation for donkeys in Victoria.
Shelter volunteer Jess Smeaton said the day provided an opportunity to see donkeys up close.
As well as having donkeys in nearby paddocks, a patting and grooming yard also gives people a chance to touch the animals.
Hello: Ruby and Noah Merryfull enjoy the chance to pat donkeys at last year's Donkey Shelter open day.
Photo by
Monique Preston
People also have the chance to see what Ms Smeaton referred to as the shelter’s “aged care” stables where some of the older donkeys are housed.
The stables used to be the donkey hospital, but new stables are being made to house sick or injured donkeys.
Donkey paraphernalia — such as cards, bric-a-brac and jewellery — will also be in sale on the day.
A sausage sizzle and cold drinks for sale mean people can make a day out of their visit.
Ms Smeaton said all money raised on the day would go towards costs of housing the donkeys, including medical costs, food, farriers, vets and medications.
She said the open day was a great day out for everyone to enjoy — donkeys included.
Up close: Curious donkeys at last year's Donkey Shelter open day.
Photo by
Monique Preston
It also helps raise awareness of donkeys.
“Come out and meet some donkeys,” Ms Smeaton said.
“Once they (visitors) meet a donkey, they will be in love with them for ever.
“They are like dogs — very affectionate.
“The donkeys get a lot out of it. They like the attention.”
The Donkey Shelter is located at 1949 Matheson Rd, Tongala.
The open day will run from 11am to 3pm, and the cost is $20 per car.
People are asked to take cash, as no eftpos facilities are available.
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