It is with a heavy heart, we share the sad news that our much-loved donkey, Starsky has passed away at the age of 25.
Last week Starsky became unwell with an infection and despite treatment and medication from our vets he needed to be hospitalised as he had stopped eating and became dehydrated. Starsky with his brother Hutch, to keep him company (it is important that donkeys are kept in pairs, so they aren’t stressed) went into Sussex Equine Hospital. He received fluids, food and medication for almost a week. He was monitored around the clock and of course the medical team made sure he was comfortable.
We would like to thank Alistair McVicar of Anvil Equine Veterinary Clinic and the whole veterinary team at Sussex Equine Hospital who worked tirelessly to help Starksy during this short illness and kept him comfortable. Unfortunately, he was simply too unwell to recover.
So, the heart-breaking decision was made that it was time to say goodbye. He did not suffer and was put to sleep gently, with his brother Hutch by his side.
Starsky and Hutch came to the sanctuary when they were 6 years old. They were amongst the first animals that Alexandra, our founder, took in when their owners couldn’t handle them because of their rather boisterous and naughty behaviour! Starsky and Hutch have always been firm favourites with the volunteers and visitors because of their cheeky characters.
Saying goodbye is so hard and Starsky will be dearly missed by everyone at the sanctuary but especially by his brother Hutch, However, we have many happy memories, and we like to think he is now reunited with Alexandra Bastedo our beloved founder.
We've launched a Just Giving campaign to help with costs of Starsky’s vet bill which totals appx £5,500 and if you can help us in any way, however small we would be extremely grateful. Simply click on the button below. Thank you.