Welcome to our new residents
6 new donkeys from the New Forest
Press release March 2026:
The Island’s much‑loved, free to visit Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary has had a busy winter, having recently welcomed six new arrivals. These include a beautiful 10 month old foal called Pickle, his mum Willow and four other donkeys: Lulu, Little Man, mother-and-daughter duo Dilly and Maisie, all rehomed from the New Forest.
As is common with rescued animals, the full history of the new residents isn’t known, but it’s believed they once lived freely in the New Forest. More recently they have been cared for as part of a larger group of 19 donkeys. As their owners grew older and found it harder to provide the level of care the animals needed, they made the tough decision to find a new home for part of the herd. As regular visitors to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, they knew their donkeys would receive exceptional care and love on the Island and so asked for help. 
After spending time in quarantine, the new arrivals are now ready to meet the public. They join several other recent additions to the sanctuary family, including donkeys Lucy and Tilly and Sunny Pony — a delightful elderly lady from Ryde.
These new animals bring the sanctuary’s total residents to 109 donkeys, 14 ponies, a mule and a horse, all of which are receiving lifelong care, support and love.
Sam Thornby, Yard Manager, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome these lovely donkeys - and Sunny Pony - to the sanctuary. Although they’ve not travelled too far, we’re monitoring the members very closely and making sure they settle in well in their new Wroxall home. We look forward to welcoming visitors this Easter holidays and introducing them to our newest arrivals.”
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