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Donkey Dreamland, the well-loved sanctuary for rescued donkeys, is temporarily closed to walk-in visitors due to an overwhelming workload, but its swung open its gates on Saturday, October 25, for its fundraising Oktoberfest. The family-friendly event attracted donkey enthusiasts from near and far, offering a joyful day of bratwurst, beer, German-style snacks, games, and donkey cuddles under unusually warm October skies. Euro Weekly News spoke with Martine Meijn, the sanctuary’s general manager, to get the latest updates on the newly rescued donkeys and the sanctuary’s operations. How are the new donkeys settling in, Martine? “Some of the newer arrivals aren’t used to freedom after being tethered for so long,” Martine explains. “They’re strong and could unintentionally harm the others, so we keep them separate for now. We’re slowly introducing them to the group, starting with one of our calmer donkeys to test the waters.” Are you planning to move them to the new mountain retreat? “We’re working toward it,” she says. “The new donkeys love affection but flinch when you raise a hand to pet them, expecting to be hit. It’s too early for them to interact with most visitors. Their issues are mostly physical, like one donkey with damaged hooves from years of standing without rest. When they arrive, they roll in the dirt, which is a new experience for many. Like humans relaxing on holiday, some get sick as they transition from stress to calm. The mountain retreat will be perfect for them to unwind, especially for our older donkeys, aged 23 to 25, who just need to rest.” Martine points to a lively five-year-old donkey. “He’s young and adoptable, unlike the older ones who need a quieter life.” Adoption process and sanctuary challenges Donkey Dreamland’s adoption process is rigorous. After adoption, the team conducts follow-up checks at one, three, six, and twelve months to ensure the donkey’s safety. Martine and Amaya, the founder, are uncompromising – if a donkey’s health is at risk, like one that was overfed by a potential adopter, they take it back. With 23 donkeys currently in their care, the sanctuary is at capacity. Martine says, “The town hall promised a large field for overnight stays, but it’s still not built. It’s a political process, and it takes time.” The sanctuary houses a range of donkeys, from spirited youngsters to retirees too old for anything but rest, including a baby donkey and a pregnant mother. A key adoption policy is keeping bonded donkey pairs together, ensuring friends aren’t separated. Martine’s journey and Dutch influence on Donkey Dreamland Before moving to Spain, Martine had little experience with donkeys. In just two and a half years, she’s become an expert and the sanctuary’s general manager, bringing her Dutch organisational skills to the operation. Clear instructions and signs now guide volunteers in tasks from handling to feeding, streamlining care. Donkey Dreamland Oktoberfest success Oktoberfest was a resounding success, drawing families for a day of fun and donkey interaction. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the chance to support the sanctuary’s mission, made it a memorable event. With the donkeys’ welfare at heart, Donkey Dreamland continues to provide a safe haven while navigating the challenges of growth and care.
