These adorable pictures show a specially made breathing ‘inhaler’ being worn – by a DONKEY with breathing problems.
Rescue donkey Marla is one of several at the Flicka Foundation who struggles with their health due to their poor past treatment.
The charity, which rescues donkeys from abuse, neglect and abandonment, said a number go on to have ongoing breathing problems.
Many of the 100 equine residents there are also elderly so staff said they were thrilled to be gifted two ‘Flexineb’ respiratory aids.
These have been successful with broncho-constriction and recurrent airway obstruction.
And now Marla, a grey rescue donkey, has shown off the equipment that is making her and several of the other residents at the sanctuary in Penryn, Cornwall, more comfortable.
They were donated by BreathEazy, a Malvern-based veterinary equipment company.
Flicka Foundation director of development, Claire Turnbull, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to receive the news that not just one, but two Flexineb systems were on their way to us.
“We know it will help our special care residents so much – a big thank you to BreathEazy for their wonderful support.”
The sanctuary is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary, having rescued and rehabilitated more than 1000 animals since its inception in 1995.
Claire added: “This has been such a wonderful boost, especially at what is a very difficult time for us. As for so many other charities, businesses and individuals, this is an incredibly worrying time for us financially.
“We rely heavily on visitors coming through our sanctuary gates to feed and care for our precious donkeys, but, due to the complexities of opening during the ongoing pandemic, we remain closed and we have sadly had to cancel all of our upcoming Silver Jubilee Anniversary events.”
Jon Slattery, veterinary director at BreathEazy Ltd said: “We were delighted to be able to donate a couple of our systems for the donkeys at the sanctuary. We love donkeys and it is our pleasure to be able to help such a good cause.”
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