Donkey abandoned while heavily pregnant finds best friend in new forever home

A donkey that was abandoned while pregnant has been rehomed and found a new best friend in the process.

Mia was taken into the care of World Horse Welfare Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Aboyne after being abandoned last summer.

She gave birth to Peanut just a month after arriving and began rehabilitation.

After successfully being rehabilitated, Mia has found a new home with another donkey who had lost a companion around the same time as Mia had lost her own friend Molly.

Groom Jodie worked with Mia and helped her build her confidence.

“When Mia first arrived, she was very cautious of people – it took a long time to gain her trust,” Jodie explained.

Mia and Peanut at Belwade Farm World Horse Welfare

“To catch Mia and her friend Molly, who was abandoned with her, for the vet, the first time we had to use special treats and all our powers of persuasion! Mia was also very protective of her tummy and hind end, and before she had her foal, Peanut, she would kick out at anyone who went near either area.

“With a lot of time, patience, and careful training, Mia’s relationship with people has completely transformed,” Jodie added.

“Seeing her go from being so apprehensive to enjoying a cuddle and being ready to rehome has been amazing. It’s been a very rewarding journey with Mia, and I’m so happy that she’s found a loving home.”

Alicia, who already has one World Horse Welfare horse as a companion, rehomed Mia in July.

She said: “Mia is adorable – she and Duffy, my donkey, spent five minutes zooming around together when they were first introduced, then they had a bit of a chat together, and that was it: best friends immediately.

“As it happens, they’d both sadly lost their friend at a similar time – I hadn’t the heart to rush straight into finding a new donkey, and I knew Duffy needed time to mourn.

“When I felt the time was right, Mia came up for rehoming just a couple of days later.

“Having already rehomed from World Horse Welfare once, I was pleased to do my bit by rehoming again to make space for another animal in need to be rescued.

“The team at Belwade Farm has done a great job with her, and she’s lovely to handle. She’s a very sweet, gentle little donkey and she loves a fuss. I’m so pleased she and Duffy have bonded so well.”