1
00:00:05,400 --> 00:00:08,135
PETER DAVISON:
Peter Wright has a Christmas wish.
2
00:00:08,160 --> 00:00:09,455
Go on, Ned.
3
00:00:09,480 --> 00:00:10,575
As a Yorkshire vet...
4
00:00:10,600 --> 00:00:14,095
Well, that's a lovely recovery.
He's back on his feet now.
5
00:00:14,120 --> 00:00:17,735
...he's always had a special affinity
with donkeys.
6
00:00:17,760 --> 00:00:20,935
Well, I think that was
a vote of satisfaction.
7
00:00:20,960 --> 00:00:22,815
And during the countdown
to Christmas...
8
00:00:22,840 --> 00:00:25,215
Is that nice?
..he's on an important journey...
9
00:00:25,240 --> 00:00:28,015
Oh, look at that.
It's lovely to see.
10
00:00:29,800 --> 00:00:32,295
...touring the country
to witness the work
11
00:00:32,320 --> 00:00:36,135
of people who dedicate their lives
to saving donkeys.
12
00:00:36,160 --> 00:00:37,815
You are doing a fantastic job.
WOMAN: Yeah.
13
00:00:37,840 --> 00:00:40,615
Don't cry. Don't cry.
14
00:00:40,640 --> 00:00:44,455
Peter meets
a fellow donkey charity patron...
15
00:00:44,480 --> 00:00:48,775
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
16
00:00:48,800 --> 00:00:51,215
...who happens to be acting royalty.
17
00:00:51,240 --> 00:00:52,895
So, can I say
you're a Yorkshire woman?
18
00:00:52,920 --> 00:00:55,255
You certainly can say
I'm a Yorkshire woman.
19
00:00:55,280 --> 00:00:58,335
And for Special Agent Wright,
the mission is clear...
20
00:00:59,680 --> 00:01:03,135
All you want is someone
to love you long-term, in't it?
21
00:01:03,160 --> 00:01:07,575
...to help find some donkeys a
forever home in time for Christmas.
22
00:01:07,600 --> 00:01:10,215
Ancl we'll make sure,
if it's at all possible,
23
00:01:10,240 --> 00:01:12,095
somewhere in beautiful Yorkshire.
24
00:01:26,800 --> 00:01:30,135
On a summer's morning,
Peter's making a pilgrimage
25
00:01:30,160 --> 00:01:34,455
to a place that's 300 miles
from his home in North Yorkshire,
26
00:01:34,480 --> 00:01:36,375
but very close to his heart.
27
00:01:37,760 --> 00:01:40,615
On the UK's Jurassic Coast,
28
00:01:40,640 --> 00:01:44,135
he's come to the Donkey Sanctuary's
headquarters in Devon
29
00:01:44,160 --> 00:01:48,455
to begin his donkey adventure
very much in his comfort zone.
30
00:01:50,840 --> 00:01:53,415
Today, I'm here to visit
the veterinary department.
31
00:01:53,440 --> 00:01:57,815
One of the donkeys needs surgery,
and I'll do what I can to help out.
32
00:01:57,840 --> 00:02:00,855
Peter's been the charity's
ambassador for five years,
33
00:02:00,880 --> 00:02:04,415
and he's keen to learn about
the kind of challenges they face
34
00:02:04,440 --> 00:02:07,495
in their quest
to help and rehome donkeys.
35
00:02:07,520 --> 00:02:09,215
Good to see you.
Nice to see you as well.
36
00:02:09,240 --> 00:02:11,015
So in the sanctuary's hospital,
37
00:02:11,040 --> 00:02:15,335
he'll be working with vetjamie
and his team, operating on Jane.
38
00:02:15,360 --> 00:02:16,495
Jane's got EOTRH.
39
00:02:16,520 --> 00:02:19,335
It's a condition that we're seeing
40
00:02:19,360 --> 00:02:21,695
quite a lot of
within our donkey population.
41
00:02:21,720 --> 00:02:24,495
It causes the teeth to decay,
and it causes them a lot of pain.
42
00:02:26,880 --> 00:02:30,135
Hi, Jane.
just pop that under there.
43
00:02:30,160 --> 00:02:33,615
'I feel very sorry forjane
with this condition.'
44
00:02:33,640 --> 00:02:37,575
Ancl it can only be dealt with
by removing the teeth.
45
00:02:37,600 --> 00:02:40,055
They don't look very nice,
do they, Jamie?
46
00:02:40,080 --> 00:02:42,335
No.
47
00:02:42,360 --> 00:02:45,135
The charity's deputy CEO, Faith,
48
00:02:45,160 --> 00:02:48,215
knows it's important
that Jane has some moral support.
49
00:02:51,240 --> 00:02:53,695
So, this is Lass,
Jane's bonded companion.
50
00:02:53,720 --> 00:02:56,655
Whenever we carry out
these kinds of procedures,
51
00:02:56,680 --> 00:02:59,015
we make sure
that the companion stays close by
52
00:02:59,040 --> 00:03:02,935
so that Jane has
the best chance of success
53
00:03:02,960 --> 00:03:05,615
but also so that Lass
doesn't get too upset.
54
00:03:07,520 --> 00:03:11,175
'They understand the donkeys.
They understand their needs.'
55
00:03:11,200 --> 00:03:13,575
Are you going to take
all the upper incisors out?
56
00:03:13,600 --> 00:03:14,735
Yeah. That's the plan.
57
00:03:14,760 --> 00:03:17,535
As long as they've got long grass
that they can use their lips for,
58
00:03:17,560 --> 00:03:18,735
they cope just fine.
59
00:03:19,960 --> 00:03:22,455
We understand
these donkeys are very loyal,
60
00:03:22,480 --> 00:03:27,455
they're very intelligent, but
they also will show great empathy.
61
00:03:27,480 --> 00:03:31,175
'All these characteristics are
typical of donkeys in general.'
62
00:03:33,720 --> 00:03:35,215
Oh, last one.
63
00:03:36,440 --> 00:03:38,215
There we go.
Well clone.
64
00:03:38,240 --> 00:03:41,415
And with Jane's vital operation
over...
65
00:03:41,440 --> 00:03:45,815
She's not going to be smiling
on next year's calendar, is she?
66
00:03:45,840 --> 00:03:47,535
She might be gumming on it.
Yes.
67
00:03:47,560 --> 00:03:51,375
Peter wants to thank
her supportive friend, Lass.
68
00:03:51,400 --> 00:03:53,495
Hello, Lass. Hey.
69
00:03:53,520 --> 00:03:56,375
You all right?
How has she been, Faith?
70
00:03:56,400 --> 00:03:58,855
She's worried about her friend,
I think.
71
00:03:58,880 --> 00:04:01,775
Donkeys will stay together
for their whole lives.
72
00:04:01,800 --> 00:04:05,495
Very, very important that we respect
those bonds. That's lovely.
73
00:04:07,480 --> 00:04:10,815
Seeing the sanctuary's vital work
from a vet's point of view...
74
00:04:10,840 --> 00:04:13,175
We're just gonna keep
a very close eye on her now
75
00:04:13,200 --> 00:04:15,975
over the next few hours as she
recovers from the an aesthetic.
76
00:04:16,000 --> 00:04:17,855
Within a few weeks,
it should be fully healed.
77
00:04:17,880 --> 00:04:21,535
...it's just what Peter needed
to kick-start his donkey mission.
78
00:04:21,560 --> 00:04:25,455
It was a great joy for me
to help with this procedure today.
79
00:04:25,480 --> 00:04:28,695
Half an hour after, there is Jane
tucking into a bit of forage.
80
00:04:30,080 --> 00:04:31,895
Ancl I think that says a lot
81
00:04:31,920 --> 00:04:34,655
about how stress-free
the procedure's been
82
00:04:34,680 --> 00:04:37,775
and how she's getting back to normal
with her best friend, Lass.
83
00:04:37,800 --> 00:04:42,175
Ancl now, in a very short period of
time, they'll be going out to graze.
84
00:04:43,480 --> 00:04:45,535
Jane, like many donkeys,
85
00:04:45,560 --> 00:04:49,415
can be treated and set on a path
to being rehomed with Lass.
86
00:04:51,120 --> 00:04:54,535
And by the time Christmas
comes round, it's Peter's aim
87
00:04:54,560 --> 00:04:57,815
to have found some rescue donkeys
a permanent place to live.
88
00:04:59,320 --> 00:05:01,775
To get a better understanding
of the size of his task,
89
00:05:01,800 --> 00:05:04,895
he's come to The Flicka Foundation
in Cornwall,
90
00:05:04,920 --> 00:05:08,655
home to over 100 donkeys,
ponies and horses,
91
00:05:08,680 --> 00:05:11,175
which is run by Laurie andjudy.
92
00:05:11,200 --> 00:05:13,815
Hello. There's a good girl.
93
00:05:13,840 --> 00:05:18,215
They're worried about two recent
rescues who'll never be rehomed.
94
00:05:18,240 --> 00:05:23,455
Like Jane and Lass over in Devon,
Frida and Finty are a bonded pair.
95
00:05:23,480 --> 00:05:26,855
They're both very senior ladies,
very lovely,
96
00:05:26,880 --> 00:05:28,415
but had a very tough life.
97
00:05:31,000 --> 00:05:32,975
They were neglected
for many, many years,
98
00:05:33,000 --> 00:05:37,815
but they're very gentle, and
they're just a delight to deal with
99
00:05:37,840 --> 00:05:40,175
because they're such friendly girls.
100
00:05:40,200 --> 00:05:41,735
Come on, then.
There we go.
101
00:05:41,760 --> 00:05:44,535
'I think it's quite sad
they've had such a tough life.
102
00:05:44,560 --> 00:05:46,815
'It's been very hard for them.'
103
00:05:46,840 --> 00:05:49,655
All right, girls. There we are.
104
00:05:54,840 --> 00:05:55,935
Morning.
105
00:05:55,960 --> 00:05:57,215
Morning.
Morning, Peter.
106
00:05:57,240 --> 00:05:58,615
Lovely clay.
Yes. Isn't it lovely?
107
00:05:58,640 --> 00:05:59,935
It is a lovely clay.
Yes.
108
00:05:59,960 --> 00:06:02,295
I'll have to come to Cornwall
more often. Yes, you should.
109
00:06:02,320 --> 00:06:06,295
These are two ladies that have been
rescued very recently, I understand.
110
00:06:06,320 --> 00:06:08,655
Yes. A few months ago.
111
00:06:08,680 --> 00:06:11,175
They've had quite a lot of neglect,
really.
112
00:06:11,200 --> 00:06:15,575
Particularly the feet are something
that are worrying us.
113
00:06:15,600 --> 00:06:17,935
I've just seen Frida now
lifting her feet. Yes.
114
00:06:17,960 --> 00:06:21,135
The problem with donkeys,
they mask their pain, don't they?
115
00:06:21,160 --> 00:06:23,815
They're very clever at hiding pain.
116
00:06:23,840 --> 00:06:25,735
But we need to know
what we're dealing with.
117
00:06:25,760 --> 00:06:29,815
The plan is to take some X-rays
of Frida and Finty's feet.
118
00:06:29,840 --> 00:06:33,895
I think the X-rays
are gonna be incredibly useful.
119
00:06:33,920 --> 00:06:36,935
It may be that the remodelling
of the pedal bones
120
00:06:36,960 --> 00:06:41,575
might indicate that
we're beyond the point of no return.
121
00:06:41,600 --> 00:06:46,655
For sanctuary volunteer, Rachel,
that would be a huge blow.
122
00:06:46,680 --> 00:06:48,495
When they arrived,
123
00:06:48,520 --> 00:06:52,335
as quite a lot of donkeys here that
arrive, in appalling conditions.
124
00:06:52,360 --> 00:06:54,615
You can't even take in
how bad they look.
125
00:06:54,640 --> 00:06:56,495
You feel like you're seeing things.
126
00:06:56,520 --> 00:06:59,855
What we're really hoping
for today is the best news,
127
00:06:59,880 --> 00:07:02,055
that their feet can be managed.
128
00:07:03,480 --> 00:07:08,335
But like Peter, local vet Charlie
knows that's not always possible.
129
00:07:08,360 --> 00:07:10,855
We're always thinking about
the quality of the donkey's life
130
00:07:10,880 --> 00:07:14,455
going forward, and if they've got
uncontrollable pain,
131
00:07:14,480 --> 00:07:18,255
then sometimes, we have to make
the kindest decision for the donkey.
132
00:07:18,280 --> 00:07:19,775
There is sensitivity.
133
00:07:22,160 --> 00:07:24,495
I can't...
SHE SNIFFS
134
00:07:24,520 --> 00:07:27,615
It's just I'm worried
if they have to be put to sleep.
135
00:07:27,640 --> 00:07:29,935
And we've worked so hard.
136
00:07:31,560 --> 00:07:33,215
Right,
I'm gonna take the picture now.
137
00:07:33,240 --> 00:07:34,735
DEVICE BEEPS
OK.
138
00:07:37,760 --> 00:07:40,135
It's so deformed, that pedal bone.
Isn't it?
139
00:07:40,160 --> 00:07:41,775
Not good, is it?
No.
140
00:07:47,680 --> 00:07:49,535
I'm eccentric, as you'll find.
141
00:07:49,560 --> 00:07:51,495
Or crazy,
whatever they wanna call us.
142
00:07:51,520 --> 00:07:55,015
Peter meets one of donkey rescue's
unsung heroes...
143
00:07:55,040 --> 00:07:56,695
It's like a different donkey.
Yeah.
144
00:07:56,720 --> 00:07:59,495
She's in the right place now.
145
00:07:59,520 --> 00:08:02,815
...as well as its most famous patron.
146
00:08:02,840 --> 00:08:04,655
So, can I say
you're a Yorkshire woman?
147
00:08:04,680 --> 00:08:06,935
You certainly can say
I'm a Yorkshire woman.
148
00:08:06,960 --> 00:08:08,135
And you, a Yorkshire man.
149
00:08:08,160 --> 00:08:10,495
Well, 20 miles north of you,
in Thirsk, yes.
150
00:08:10,520 --> 00:08:12,375
That'll just about do.
Yeah.
151
00:08:12,400 --> 00:08:14,055
PETER LAUGHS
152
00:08:24,680 --> 00:08:25,815
WOMAN: There we go.
153
00:08:25,840 --> 00:08:28,335
PETER DAVISON: Donkeys have always
had a special association
154
00:08:28,360 --> 00:08:32,735
with the festive season
and the greatest story ever told.
155
00:08:35,240 --> 00:08:39,015
But every year, there are those
who suffer neglect and hardship.
156
00:08:39,040 --> 00:08:40,455
DON KEY BRAYS
157
00:08:40,480 --> 00:08:42,455
As well as seeking
a better understanding
158
00:08:42,480 --> 00:08:44,055
of the work that's done
to help them,
159
00:08:44,080 --> 00:08:48,495
donkey charity ambassador Peter
wants to find some rescues
160
00:08:48,520 --> 00:08:50,895
a forever home
in time for Christmas.
161
00:08:56,040 --> 00:08:59,055
But right now,
on a summer's day in Cornwall...
162
00:08:59,080 --> 00:09:00,655
Happy with that, Julie?
163
00:09:00,680 --> 00:09:03,695
...the Yorkshire vet
is concerned about two donkeys
164
00:09:03,720 --> 00:09:06,055
who'll never be rehomed.
DEVICE BEEPS
165
00:09:06,080 --> 00:09:09,615
The big question is whether there's
any hope for Frida and Finty
166
00:09:09,640 --> 00:09:13,935
after the serious neglect they
suffered earlier in their lives.
167
00:09:13,960 --> 00:09:16,335
Bit more.
168
00:09:16,360 --> 00:09:20,735
Peter's X-raying Frida's feet
with local vets Julie and Charlie.
169
00:09:20,760 --> 00:09:23,055
Pedal bone doesn't look
very healthy.
170
00:09:23,080 --> 00:09:24,655
Not looking so good.
171
00:09:24,680 --> 00:09:28,295
The pedal bone is
the triangular bone within the foot,
172
00:09:28,320 --> 00:09:30,655
and it should be a triangular shape.
173
00:09:30,680 --> 00:09:32,935
We're just gonna take
some more views,
174
00:09:32,960 --> 00:09:34,175
try and get more information.
175
00:09:34,200 --> 00:09:35,895
DEVICE BEEPS
176
00:09:35,920 --> 00:09:39,615
Little bit depressed, really,
about those X-rays.
177
00:09:42,440 --> 00:09:44,215
That bone isn't healthy at all.
178
00:09:44,240 --> 00:09:48,935
That is probably as a result
of long-time neglect.
179
00:09:48,960 --> 00:09:52,935
Ancl there's going to be
a lot of ifs and buts, really,
180
00:09:52,960 --> 00:09:54,695
as to whether Arthur, the farrier,
181
00:09:54,720 --> 00:09:58,495
is going to be able
to improve quality of life.
182
00:09:58,520 --> 00:10:01,095
I don't even know if it's possible,
in all honesty.
183
00:10:01,120 --> 00:10:03,695
That's the thing.
I think I'm grasping at straws.
184
00:10:03,720 --> 00:10:06,215
Is it really gonna help her
long-term?
185
00:10:07,400 --> 00:10:08,935
I don't know.
186
00:10:10,760 --> 00:10:14,095
Finty's feet
are also a huge concern.
187
00:10:16,400 --> 00:10:17,775
Good girl.
188
00:10:17,800 --> 00:10:21,255
Let's just hope that things
aren't as bad as Frida's are.
189
00:10:24,120 --> 00:10:25,215
Very different.
190
00:10:25,240 --> 00:10:27,575
Yes. Yeah.
Density's better, isn't it?
191
00:10:27,600 --> 00:10:31,175
In comparison to Frida,
the bone is much more normal.
192
00:10:32,480 --> 00:10:35,135
Much will depend
on whether Arthur the farrier
193
00:10:35,160 --> 00:10:37,055
thinks he can stop any suffering.
194
00:10:37,080 --> 00:10:39,655
So, we've got the X-rays
of the girls. OK.
195
00:10:39,680 --> 00:10:42,895
Volunteer Rachel
is on tenterhooks.
196
00:10:42,920 --> 00:10:45,215
It's an anxious wait.
197
00:10:45,240 --> 00:10:46,935
Looking forward, erm,
198
00:10:46,960 --> 00:10:49,695
yeah, we need to know
where we're gonna go.
199
00:10:52,280 --> 00:10:53,495
OK.
200
00:10:53,520 --> 00:10:56,335
Do you think you can improve
her quality of life
201
00:10:56,360 --> 00:10:58,095
from where she is now?
202
00:10:58,120 --> 00:10:59,935
Errn, I think we can.
203
00:10:59,960 --> 00:11:01,735
We can certainly look
at creating a base
204
00:11:01,760 --> 00:11:05,095
that she can stand on to keep
everything nice and level and flat
205
00:11:05,120 --> 00:11:08,375
and spreading her load
over as wide an area as possible.
206
00:11:08,400 --> 00:11:11,615
It really is down to being able
to make her comfortable. Yeah.
207
00:11:11,640 --> 00:11:15,495
It's really going to be a case
of we'll give it a try.
208
00:11:17,000 --> 00:11:18,815
Frida and Finty
will stay at the sanctuary
209
00:11:18,840 --> 00:11:22,535
under the care
ofjudy, Laurie and the team.
210
00:11:22,560 --> 00:11:24,655
And if Arthur's successful,
211
00:11:24,680 --> 00:11:28,135
their lives will finally be
pain-free and happy.
212
00:11:28,160 --> 00:11:29,855
There we go, sweetheart.
213
00:11:29,880 --> 00:11:32,375
There's just a little bit
of a glimmer of new beginnings
214
00:11:32,400 --> 00:11:36,095
and the chance to have
a reasonable life.
215
00:11:36,120 --> 00:11:38,135
JULIE: Yeah, but I think
everything you stand for,
216
00:11:38,160 --> 00:11:41,655
that "flicka" of hope,
that's what they're here for.
217
00:11:41,680 --> 00:11:42,815
I hope so.
218
00:11:42,840 --> 00:11:44,415
Eh, Rach?
Yeah.
219
00:11:44,440 --> 00:11:46,255
Don't cry. Don't cry.
220
00:11:46,280 --> 00:11:47,935
THEY CHUCKLE
221
00:11:47,960 --> 00:11:49,815
You are doing a fantastic job.
JULIE: Yeah.
222
00:11:49,840 --> 00:11:51,175
Thank you.
223
00:11:54,320 --> 00:11:57,615
'We're very upset for poor Frida.'
224
00:11:59,000 --> 00:12:03,775
But, Arthur, fingers crossed
he can make her more comfortable.
225
00:12:03,800 --> 00:12:07,015
Just anxious, but hopeful.
226
00:12:07,040 --> 00:12:09,215
As long as Frida's fighting,
we'll fight. Yeah.
227
00:12:15,160 --> 00:12:17,815
Christmas is a time for giving.
228
00:12:17,840 --> 00:12:20,895
But all year round,
as well as the large charities,
229
00:12:20,920 --> 00:12:23,255
there are selfless souls dedicated
230
00:12:23,280 --> 00:12:25,455
to helping donkeys
on a smaller scale.
231
00:12:27,200 --> 00:12:30,855
Peter's back up north in the
beautiful cathedral city of Durham
232
00:12:30,880 --> 00:12:32,695
to meet Ian...
233
00:12:32,720 --> 00:12:35,775
Hello, baby. Hello.
234
00:12:35,800 --> 00:12:40,135
...a former businessman who now
spends his retirement rescuing,
235
00:12:40,160 --> 00:12:42,575
rehabilitating and rehoming donkeys.
236
00:12:44,880 --> 00:12:46,895
We're a small charity.
237
00:12:46,920 --> 00:12:49,255
At the moment,
we've got a capacity of 20 donkeys
238
00:12:49,280 --> 00:12:51,855
and people say to us, "Well,
if you've got a capacity of 20
239
00:12:51,880 --> 00:12:54,215
"and you've got 24,
how do you do it?"
240
00:12:54,240 --> 00:12:56,495
And quite frankly,
I just pretend we haven't got them.
241
00:12:56,520 --> 00:12:58,135
We don't really wanna turn one away.
242
00:13:00,120 --> 00:13:02,895
I wanted to do it
on a part-time basis.
243
00:13:02,920 --> 00:13:05,695
It's now turned
into eight clays a week
244
00:13:05,720 --> 00:13:08,615
and a constant struggle for finance.
245
00:13:08,640 --> 00:13:11,655
We're one donkey being really poorly
246
00:13:11,680 --> 00:13:14,495
away from wiping out
the small reserve we've got.
247
00:13:16,800 --> 00:13:18,535
Ian runs the Durham Donkey Rescue...
248
00:13:18,560 --> 00:13:20,895
Peter. Hello. Hello.
249
00:13:20,920 --> 00:13:22,575
Nice to meet you.
Thanks for coming to see us.
250
00:13:22,600 --> 00:13:26,815
...with the help of just a handful
of unpaid volunteers.
251
00:13:29,920 --> 00:13:32,975
Why? Why did you want
to go into donkey rescue?
252
00:13:33,000 --> 00:13:35,655
Well, I was poorly, and, erm...
253
00:13:35,680 --> 00:13:38,135
because I was in business
and I overdid it,
254
00:13:38,160 --> 00:13:41,095
and I got on the rat race,
chasing money like everybody else,
255
00:13:41,120 --> 00:13:44,055
I wanted to retire,
or I needed to retire, really.
256
00:13:44,080 --> 00:13:45,655
So I wanted to give summat back.
257
00:13:45,680 --> 00:13:48,855
Ancl to be honest, I've had
my payback from them, really.
258
00:13:48,880 --> 00:13:50,935
I'm eccentric, as you'll find.
259
00:13:50,960 --> 00:13:54,375
Or crazy, whatever
they wanna call us. But I love it.
260
00:13:55,680 --> 00:14:00,375
Although, this good cause
does come with its bad days.
261
00:14:00,400 --> 00:14:03,055
This is one of the first ones
we got in...
262
00:14:03,080 --> 00:14:05,095
Ebony.
..a couple a year ago, Ebony.
263
00:14:05,120 --> 00:14:08,495
Probably one of the worst cases
we'd ever had.
264
00:14:08,520 --> 00:14:11,095
Skin and bone
and all this horrible running sores.
265
00:14:11,120 --> 00:14:12,655
That looks like rain scald.
266
00:14:12,680 --> 00:14:15,775
Yeah, it is. She'd just been outside
for months and months on end.
267
00:14:15,800 --> 00:14:16,975
She had no shelter?
268
00:14:17,000 --> 00:14:19,695
She had no shelter, and she knew
she had no food and no help.
269
00:14:21,320 --> 00:14:22,935
I mean, that skin looks horrendous.
270
00:14:22,960 --> 00:14:26,175
If they're standing out
in all weathers, the wet penetrates.
271
00:14:26,200 --> 00:14:29,375
Ancl as a consequence,
bacteria starts to work,
272
00:14:29,400 --> 00:14:30,935
and it's painful.
273
00:14:30,960 --> 00:14:33,375
Donkeys must have a shelter.
Yeah.
274
00:14:36,800 --> 00:14:38,735
Thanks to Ian and his team...
275
00:14:38,760 --> 00:14:41,295
Hello.
276
00:14:41,320 --> 00:14:44,895
...both Ebony and her mum, Dolly,
now have a bright future.
277
00:14:44,920 --> 00:14:46,615
She's like a different donkey.
Yeah.
278
00:14:46,640 --> 00:14:49,015
I mean, it took us nine months
to put her right.
279
00:14:49,040 --> 00:14:51,295
She was that bad,
I thought she was a goner.
280
00:14:51,320 --> 00:14:53,815
Ancl we very nearly lost her.
281
00:14:53,840 --> 00:14:56,415
But hopefully,
she's in the right place now.
282
00:14:58,280 --> 00:15:02,255
I know you've got to rehome them,
Ian, but you must get attached.
283
00:15:02,280 --> 00:15:05,055
I kind of try to distance myself
from it because they've got to go.
284
00:15:05,080 --> 00:15:06,535
Some people think I'm hard, but...
285
00:15:06,560 --> 00:15:08,295
Ian, I haven't known you long,
286
00:15:08,320 --> 00:15:10,215
but I can see
you're a bit of a softie, really.
287
00:15:10,240 --> 00:15:11,655
PETER LAUGHS
Yeah. Well, yeah.
288
00:15:11,680 --> 00:15:14,495
I suppose, deep down,
I am smiling, or I am a bit soft.
289
00:15:14,520 --> 00:15:16,975
But don't tell anybody, please.
Your secret's safe with me.
290
00:15:17,000 --> 00:15:19,335
Yeah. Thank you.
PETER LAUGHS
291
00:15:21,640 --> 00:15:23,415
Come on this way, eh?
292
00:15:23,440 --> 00:15:27,055
Last year, Ian rehomed
10 of the 18 donkeys he rescued.
293
00:15:28,520 --> 00:15:31,615
The rest get to enjoy
the life of luxury here.
294
00:15:31,640 --> 00:15:32,775
Good girl.
295
00:15:32,800 --> 00:15:35,135
I can hardly quantify what I do.
296
00:15:35,160 --> 00:15:38,295
I don't get paid. I don't
ever intend or want to be paid.
297
00:15:38,320 --> 00:15:40,375
I think I've had my eyes opened
298
00:15:40,400 --> 00:15:43,255
to how bad these animals have been
when they've come in,
299
00:15:43,280 --> 00:15:46,455
and the satisfaction
we've all had when we fixed one up.
300
00:15:46,480 --> 00:15:49,335
'It's a lovely, lovely feeling.
You've got her back.'
301
00:15:49,360 --> 00:15:50,935
PETER CHUCKLES
302
00:15:50,960 --> 00:15:52,775
And quite frankly,
what more could you wish for?
303
00:15:54,080 --> 00:15:59,255
Mother and daughter have had it
pretty rough, but they're OK now.
304
00:16:10,400 --> 00:16:13,575
With his heart warmed,
Peter has renewed hope
305
00:16:13,600 --> 00:16:17,375
in his mission to rehome donkeys
before Christmas.
306
00:16:17,400 --> 00:16:20,615
But back in Devon,
at Donkey Sanctuary HQ...
307
00:16:20,640 --> 00:16:22,415
Peter, pleased to meet you.
Nice to meet you.
308
00:16:22,440 --> 00:16:25,855
...farm supervisorjosie
and lead behavioural expert Ben
309
00:16:25,880 --> 00:16:28,055
are about to hit him
with a reality check.
310
00:16:31,160 --> 00:16:33,575
Today, I'd like to show you
some of the details
311
00:16:33,600 --> 00:16:36,815
of one of the biggest rescues that
we've clone to date - Operation Dawn.
312
00:16:36,840 --> 00:16:38,335
I'd like to show you some footage
313
00:16:38,360 --> 00:16:41,175
so you can have an idea
of what people were up against.
314
00:16:45,080 --> 00:16:49,495
In Operation Dawn, carried out
in the early hours of the morning...
315
00:16:49,520 --> 00:16:51,135
DON KEYS BRAY
316
00:16:51,160 --> 00:16:55,375
...rescued nearly 100 donkeys
being kept by a breeder.
317
00:16:56,440 --> 00:16:58,055
Oh, look at the condition of them.
Yeah.
318
00:16:58,080 --> 00:16:59,695
Just filthy.
319
00:17:03,160 --> 00:17:06,615
The conditions were just horrendous.
Oh!
320
00:17:12,600 --> 00:17:17,455
Those feet are... It's just
indescribable, really. Yeah.
321
00:17:17,480 --> 00:17:19,215
And you can see
how uncomfortable they are.
322
00:17:21,200 --> 00:17:23,415
It is soul-destroying watching this.
323
00:17:29,800 --> 00:17:32,615
What did you feel when you saw
324
00:17:32,640 --> 00:17:36,255
lorries being unloaded
with animals in this state?
325
00:17:36,280 --> 00:17:38,295
I think it was the sheer quantity.
326
00:17:38,320 --> 00:17:40,815
And there was foals in there
as well.
327
00:17:40,840 --> 00:17:44,215
And to see a foal clutching to their
mums because they're terrified,
328
00:17:44,240 --> 00:17:46,615
it affected all of the staff hugely.
Yeah.
329
00:17:46,640 --> 00:17:50,535
It is quite normal
in cases like this
330
00:17:50,560 --> 00:17:52,895
where some of them
are not fit to travel,
331
00:17:52,920 --> 00:17:55,415
they are put to sleep
to end their suffering.
332
00:17:57,120 --> 00:18:00,695
Rehabilitating donkeys...
333
00:18:00,720 --> 00:18:04,375
who have suffered so badly
is a long process.
334
00:18:04,400 --> 00:18:07,775
You can see that fear of,
"Oh, what's gonna happen?"
335
00:18:07,800 --> 00:18:10,775
Many find it very difficult
to trust people.
336
00:18:10,800 --> 00:18:14,335
Just take a step towards him,
just, like, a half step.
337
00:18:14,360 --> 00:18:17,255
I think he can smell
that you're a vet, Peter.
338
00:18:18,880 --> 00:18:22,695
You can see him thinking,
"Do I want to come and engage?"
339
00:18:22,720 --> 00:18:25,375
Almost there with him. Almost.
340
00:18:25,400 --> 00:18:26,575
As veterinary surgeons,
341
00:18:26,600 --> 00:18:30,455
we're not really involved
with this aspect of your work.
342
00:18:30,480 --> 00:18:33,695
So for me,
it's a sharp learning curve.
343
00:18:33,720 --> 00:18:36,255
Oh, isn't that lovely?
He's moving to Ben now.
344
00:18:37,840 --> 00:18:41,095
Oh, look at that. Look at that.
345
00:18:41,120 --> 00:18:42,495
It's lovely to see.
346
00:18:42,520 --> 00:18:45,135
PETER LAUGHS
347
00:18:45,160 --> 00:18:47,535
Ben, this must give you
a great deal of satisfaction
348
00:18:47,560 --> 00:18:50,375
to see the progress that you're
making with these individuals.
349
00:18:50,400 --> 00:18:56,135
You're reaching across a species and
giving them confidence and courage.
350
00:18:56,160 --> 00:18:58,335
It's absolutely amazing
to be part of that.
351
00:19:01,960 --> 00:19:04,015
The physical issues
352
00:19:04,040 --> 00:19:06,695
that are dealt with by veterinary
surgeons clay in and clay out
353
00:19:06,720 --> 00:19:09,335
here at the sanctuary
is well-documented and well-known,
354
00:19:09,360 --> 00:19:10,815
and I'm fully aware of that,
355
00:19:10,840 --> 00:19:12,735
but I've not been fully aware
356
00:19:12,760 --> 00:19:16,375
of the behavioural work
that's carried out here.
357
00:19:16,400 --> 00:19:19,495
Ancl I've learned today,
fairly exponentially, really,
358
00:19:19,520 --> 00:19:24,015
it's a long slow process
in getting them back to full health,
359
00:19:24,040 --> 00:19:27,015
but it's obvious that there is light
at the end of the tunnel.
360
00:19:28,760 --> 00:19:31,095
This chap seems to have taken to me
straight away.
361
00:19:31,120 --> 00:19:33,295
DON KEY BRAYS
362
00:19:34,880 --> 00:19:37,775
Well, I think that was a vote
of satisfaction.
363
00:19:37,800 --> 00:19:40,255
DON KEY BRAYS
364
00:19:54,240 --> 00:19:56,255
With summer drawing to a close,
365
00:19:56,280 --> 00:19:58,455
Peter's keen
for some uplifting news.
366
00:19:59,760 --> 00:20:02,855
And a couple of months
after he first met Frida and Finty
367
00:20:02,880 --> 00:20:05,815
at the Cornwall sanctuary,
he's back to see them.
368
00:20:07,640 --> 00:20:13,335
I had serious concerns
about the feet of Frida and Finty,
369
00:20:13,360 --> 00:20:15,615
and I'm just hoping
that Arthur the farrier
370
00:20:15,640 --> 00:20:16,895
has been able to weave his magic.
371
00:20:18,720 --> 00:20:20,895
So here's keeping
my fingers crossed.
372
00:20:28,320 --> 00:20:29,935
Rachel.
Hello, all right?
373
00:20:29,960 --> 00:20:33,135
Nice to see you again.
Yeah. And yourself, yeah.
374
00:20:33,160 --> 00:20:36,095
How are you getting on?
Doing very well, actually.
375
00:20:36,120 --> 00:20:38,415
Last time I saw you, we were talking
about putting shoes on.
376
00:20:38,440 --> 00:20:39,695
It's a glue-on shoe.
377
00:20:39,720 --> 00:20:42,495
I remember we were talking about
creating a bigger, flatter platform
378
00:20:42,520 --> 00:20:45,095
for them to stand on
and spread the weight around.
379
00:20:45,120 --> 00:20:47,615
It was Frida that I was
particularly concerned about
380
00:20:47,640 --> 00:20:49,415
because her radiographs
were the worst.
381
00:20:49,440 --> 00:20:51,895
So that's good.
We're seeing signs of improvement.
382
00:20:51,920 --> 00:20:53,575
It's going the right way,
and hopefully,
383
00:20:53,600 --> 00:20:55,855
we can help more
and keep her comfortable, really.
384
00:20:55,880 --> 00:20:56,975
It's all about comfort on her.
385
00:20:57,000 --> 00:20:58,775
Good girl.
386
00:21:01,840 --> 00:21:03,695
It was really upsetting news.
387
00:21:03,720 --> 00:21:07,775
I think in the back of our minds,
we knew that that could be the case
388
00:21:07,800 --> 00:21:10,455
from how bad their hooves were
when they came.
389
00:21:10,480 --> 00:21:11,855
That's it, good girl.
390
00:21:11,880 --> 00:21:17,655
'But having the gel shoes on,
their mobility has improved a lot.'
391
00:21:17,680 --> 00:21:19,415
That makes me feel more relieved
392
00:21:19,440 --> 00:21:23,055
So far,
keeping fingers crossed
393
00:21:23,080 --> 00:21:24,775
we're heading
in the right direction.
394
00:21:24,800 --> 00:21:27,695
This is the sort of stuff that my
wife would wrap my sandwiches with.
395
00:21:27,720 --> 00:21:30,095
It's exactly what it is. Yeah.
ARTHUR LAUGHS
396
00:21:30,120 --> 00:21:33,255
After that reassuring update...
There we go.
397
00:21:33,280 --> 00:21:36,815
...Peter's about to meet
the charity's most famous patron.
398
00:21:36,840 --> 00:21:39,335
And donkeys in need
couldn't have anyone
399
00:21:39,360 --> 00:21:41,695
of much higher stature
in their corner
400
00:21:41,720 --> 00:21:44,335
than acting legend
Damejudi Dench.
401
00:21:44,360 --> 00:21:45,655
Oh, beauty.
402
00:21:47,800 --> 00:21:49,615
Oh, hello.
Jude.
403
00:21:49,640 --> 00:21:52,055
I can't tell you what an honour
and a pleasure this is.
404
00:21:52,080 --> 00:21:54,415
How lovely to meet you.
Ancl you. My daughter, Finty.
405
00:21:54,440 --> 00:21:56,175
Hello.
Finty. Pleased to see you.
406
00:21:56,200 --> 00:21:58,495
Well, I can see you've got
your fan club round you already.
407
00:21:58,520 --> 00:22:00,535
Well, this is an old friend of mine.
408
00:22:00,560 --> 00:22:02,575
But you really are
a true animal lover, aren't you?
409
00:22:02,600 --> 00:22:06,295
I think we always have been, yes.
I've always had...
410
00:22:06,320 --> 00:22:09,015
During the war,
I was brought up in York,
411
00:22:09,040 --> 00:22:10,615
we had 14 cats.
412
00:22:10,640 --> 00:22:12,215
So, can I say
you're a Yorkshire woman?
413
00:22:12,240 --> 00:22:14,855
You certainly can say
I'm a Yorkshire woman.
414
00:22:14,880 --> 00:22:17,455
Proud Yorkshire woman, I think.
Ancl you, a Yorkshire man?
415
00:22:17,480 --> 00:22:20,055
Well, 20 miles north of you
in Thirsk, yes.
416
00:22:20,080 --> 00:22:23,415
That'll just about do.
HE LAUGHS
417
00:22:23,440 --> 00:22:25,375
Well, I don't know
whether you've got one or not.
418
00:22:25,400 --> 00:22:29,015
And, you know,
it's not exactly priceless,
419
00:22:29,040 --> 00:22:30,775
but it's a Yorkshire rose.
420
00:22:30,800 --> 00:22:33,655
You may have one already.
I haven't got one.
421
00:22:33,680 --> 00:22:36,015
Have you not?
How lovely.
422
00:22:36,040 --> 00:22:38,295
We've always been passionate
about donkeys.
423
00:22:38,320 --> 00:22:40,215
Always. Well, how can you not?
424
00:22:40,240 --> 00:22:41,655
Well...
Look at this person.
425
00:22:41,680 --> 00:22:44,015
So, this is Lolita, I believe,
isn't it?
426
00:22:44,040 --> 00:22:46,375
This is Lolita.
Who you've adopted.
427
00:22:46,400 --> 00:22:48,735
Yes.
Lolita's a Poitou donkey.
428
00:22:48,760 --> 00:22:51,695
They're such lovable, big teddy
bears in many ways, I think.
429
00:22:51,720 --> 00:22:53,535
Look at those great ears.
430
00:22:53,560 --> 00:22:55,295
Well, to me, they always look as if
431
00:22:55,320 --> 00:22:57,015
they've had a hard party
the night before.
432
00:22:57,040 --> 00:22:58,855
They always look
a bit dishevelled to me.
433
00:22:58,880 --> 00:23:00,455
You've been offended now.
434
00:23:00,480 --> 00:23:03,495
You're very, very shocked
about what you said.
435
00:23:04,800 --> 00:23:07,055
Would you mind having a look
at a couple of donkeys
436
00:23:07,080 --> 00:23:08,935
that I'd like you to meet?
437
00:23:08,960 --> 00:23:11,295
Would they like to meet me, Peter?
438
00:23:11,320 --> 00:23:13,135
Well, they haven't said otherwise,
so I'm sure,
439
00:23:13,160 --> 00:23:15,415
yes, I'm sure they'd love to.
Fine.
440
00:23:15,440 --> 00:23:16,975
THEY LAUGH
441
00:23:19,600 --> 00:23:23,975
Come on, Elvis, shape yourself, man.
It won't be a blue Christmas...
442
00:23:24,000 --> 00:23:28,295
Be brave, Elvis.
..but is Elvis's owner all shook up?
443
00:23:28,320 --> 00:23:29,775
I'm not gonna look.
444
00:23:29,800 --> 00:23:33,375
And as well as castrating the King,
has Peter offended a dame?
445
00:23:33,400 --> 00:23:36,615
Oh, charming. You're a Thirsk man
if ever I met one.
446
00:23:36,640 --> 00:23:39,495
Oh, no, no, no!
LAUGHTER
447
00:23:50,520 --> 00:23:53,535
PETER DAVISON: During his 40 years
as a Yorkshire vet...
448
00:23:53,560 --> 00:23:56,895
He's a real bobby-dazzler, isn't he?
He's beautiful.
449
00:23:56,920 --> 00:23:59,855
...Peter has always loved
helping donkeys...
450
00:23:59,880 --> 00:24:03,255
It's a thermometer.
I'm going to stick it up your bum.
451
00:24:03,280 --> 00:24:06,655
...which feels even more magical
during the festive season.
452
00:24:06,680 --> 00:24:09,935
What a little cutie.
LAUGHTER
453
00:24:09,960 --> 00:24:12,295
Didn't like the thermometer,
did you, Gabriel?
454
00:24:12,320 --> 00:24:14,655
Top of Peter's Christmas list
this year
455
00:24:14,680 --> 00:24:18,015
is to see as many donkeys
as possible happy, healthy
456
00:24:18,040 --> 00:24:19,375
and rehomed.
457
00:24:19,400 --> 00:24:22,175
You know, I think I could live here.
Yes, me too.
458
00:24:22,200 --> 00:24:25,575
In Cornwall, he's introducing
Flicka Foundation patron
459
00:24:25,600 --> 00:24:28,135
Damejudi Dench
and her daughter, Finty,
460
00:24:28,160 --> 00:24:31,135
to the sanctuary's
most recent success stories.
461
00:24:34,520 --> 00:24:39,535
Well, I'd like you to meet
Frieda and Finty, another Finty.
462
00:24:39,560 --> 00:24:43,575
Oh, Frieda. Hello, Finty.
463
00:24:43,600 --> 00:24:46,575
Hello, sweet.
464
00:24:46,600 --> 00:24:47,935
Oh, beautiful.
465
00:24:49,600 --> 00:24:53,095
Oh, my. So how long
have they been in, these two?
466
00:24:53,120 --> 00:24:56,135
These two have been here
about four months now.
467
00:24:56,160 --> 00:24:58,415
When they came in,
they were walking very, very badly
468
00:24:58,440 --> 00:25:01,175
because of the pain in their feet.
469
00:25:01,200 --> 00:25:03,735
Ancl clue to the care of the farrier,
470
00:25:03,760 --> 00:25:07,295
gradually is making
big improvements.
471
00:25:07,320 --> 00:25:09,575
Oh, clear.
Well, how lucky they were.
472
00:25:10,920 --> 00:25:12,735
How lucky. You got very lucky.
473
00:25:12,760 --> 00:25:14,415
There we are.
474
00:25:14,440 --> 00:25:16,775
But they're very gentle creatures,
aren't they?
475
00:25:16,800 --> 00:25:19,135
Ancl even though
they've been neglected so,
476
00:25:19,160 --> 00:25:20,935
it just shows...
They're trusting.
477
00:25:20,960 --> 00:25:23,615
Yeah. The trust is there, isn't it?
478
00:25:23,640 --> 00:25:27,495
But these are two of the lucky ones.
479
00:25:27,520 --> 00:25:31,895
Because we've all adopted a donkey,
or several donkeys,
480
00:25:31,920 --> 00:25:34,095
we feel part of the family...
481
00:25:35,160 --> 00:25:37,735
...and a remarkable family it is too,
482
00:25:37,760 --> 00:25:42,815
the way they're looked after
is just wonderful.
483
00:25:42,840 --> 00:25:46,575
Beautiful. Beautiful. Beautiful.
484
00:25:51,040 --> 00:25:53,375
Jude, I've seen you
for so many years
485
00:25:53,400 --> 00:25:56,455
in doing the fantastic work
that you've clone.
486
00:25:56,480 --> 00:25:59,735
Ancl we have in common our love
for donkeys.
487
00:25:59,760 --> 00:26:03,375
And, you know, you're ambassador
here at the Flicka Foundation,
488
00:26:03,400 --> 00:26:06,575
I'm the ambassador
at the Donkey Sanctuary,
489
00:26:06,600 --> 00:26:09,335
and I feel very privileged to be.
490
00:26:09,360 --> 00:26:11,695
So how do you feel about it?
I quite agree.
491
00:26:11,720 --> 00:26:16,015
Ancl this place is so beautifully run
to have donkeys brought in
492
00:26:16,040 --> 00:26:18,415
in some kind of state,
493
00:26:18,440 --> 00:26:23,295
and then to gradually be able
to work on them and work with them.
494
00:26:23,320 --> 00:26:25,655
Ancl it just does you good,
doesn't it,
495
00:26:25,680 --> 00:26:27,135
to come here and see them?
496
00:26:27,160 --> 00:26:30,295
It is uplifting, isn't it?
It certainly is.
497
00:26:30,320 --> 00:26:33,695
I mean, what surroundings they
have here, how lucky they are.
498
00:26:33,720 --> 00:26:36,055
But we also have something else
in common, haven't we?
499
00:26:36,080 --> 00:26:37,575
The fact that we're both
from Yorkshire.
500
00:26:37,600 --> 00:26:40,095
Oh, God's own country.
Through and through.
501
00:26:40,120 --> 00:26:43,415
You've got the badge to prove it.
I certainly have the badge.
502
00:26:43,440 --> 00:26:44,975
I love it, thank you.
503
00:26:45,000 --> 00:26:48,015
But Damejudi won't be the only one.
504
00:26:48,040 --> 00:26:50,375
I'll put a couple of badges in
as well for you.
505
00:26:50,400 --> 00:26:52,655
Oh, just any old person
gets a badge.
506
00:26:52,680 --> 00:26:55,375
LAUGHTER
507
00:26:55,400 --> 00:26:59,695
Oh, charming. You're a Thirsk man
if ever I met one.
508
00:26:59,720 --> 00:27:01,535
LAUGHING: No, n0!
509
00:27:01,560 --> 00:27:04,135
Because you come from Yorkshire,
here's a lovely badge for you.
510
00:27:04,160 --> 00:27:07,655
Oh, no, everyone's having a badge.
LAUGHTER
511
00:27:07,680 --> 00:27:09,015
Oh, no.
512
00:27:16,040 --> 00:27:18,375
Because of his day job
in North Yorkshire,
513
00:27:18,400 --> 00:27:21,895
Peter knows if he succeeds in
his mission to find a forever home
514
00:27:21,920 --> 00:27:25,215
for some rescue donkeys,
just how loved they'll be.
515
00:27:25,240 --> 00:27:26,935
Elvis!
CLICKS TONGUE
516
00:27:26,960 --> 00:27:28,495
Elvis.
517
00:27:28,520 --> 00:27:31,935
Elvis is Beattie and her niece
Lizzie's little donkey,
518
00:27:31,960 --> 00:27:34,935
who, unlike some
of those Peter's met recently,
519
00:27:34,960 --> 00:27:37,415
has had all the care
and attention he needs...
520
00:27:37,440 --> 00:27:38,975
KISSING NOISES,
BEATTIE LAUGHS
521
00:27:39,000 --> 00:27:40,135
...from day one.
522
00:27:42,560 --> 00:27:47,255
I've a history with Elvis going back
to when he was first born.
523
00:27:47,280 --> 00:27:50,975
Ancl Elvis had it pretty rough
at the start.
524
00:27:51,000 --> 00:27:52,615
Obviously he's going there.
Yeah.
525
00:27:52,640 --> 00:27:55,095
We don't know how much he's taking.
No.
526
00:27:55,120 --> 00:27:56,775
The other thing is,
527
00:27:56,800 --> 00:27:59,815
we don't know what the quality
of the milk's like.
528
00:27:59,840 --> 00:28:02,095
He spent some time
in the equine hospital
529
00:28:02,120 --> 00:28:06,175
and had to have a plasma infusion.
530
00:28:06,200 --> 00:28:10,895
But he's made a miraculous recovery,
and he's our little miracle baby.
531
00:28:10,920 --> 00:28:14,255
Elvis is now old enough
to be a handful in other ways.
532
00:28:14,280 --> 00:28:16,735
He's on the loose!
LIZZIE SHRIEKS
533
00:28:16,760 --> 00:28:19,015
So Peter and his colleague Hannah
are here
534
00:28:19,040 --> 00:28:21,015
to perform a vital operation...
535
00:28:21,040 --> 00:28:22,255
Let's rock 'n' Roll.
536
00:28:22,280 --> 00:28:24,735
...with the assistance
of budding vet Lizzie.
537
00:28:24,760 --> 00:28:27,095
Good morning.
Good morning. How are you?
538
00:28:27,120 --> 00:28:29,095
Very well. How are you?
I mustn't grumble.
539
00:28:29,120 --> 00:28:31,695
Ancl how are you, Lizzie?
She'll be supervising us, won't you?
540
00:28:31,720 --> 00:28:34,655
Keeping us right?
Yeah.
541
00:28:34,680 --> 00:28:37,175
Lizzie, this is
your first ever surgery.
542
00:28:37,200 --> 00:28:39,535
So, are you nervous?
No.
543
00:28:39,560 --> 00:28:41,375
I don't know how you do it,
because I get nervous.
544
00:28:41,400 --> 00:28:44,815
I think Elvis is nervous?
Elvis has every right to be.
545
00:28:44,840 --> 00:28:46,695
Elvis is backing away.
546
00:28:48,520 --> 00:28:52,455
We're going to carry out
a castration on Elvis this morning.
547
00:28:52,480 --> 00:28:56,295
It's an operation that needs doing.
Come on, Elvis.
548
00:28:56,320 --> 00:28:59,895
They can become
a little mischievous with testicles.
549
00:28:59,920 --> 00:29:03,735
Come on, Elvis, shape yourself, man.
Come and get the apple.
550
00:29:03,760 --> 00:29:07,055
Oh, it's better castrated,
and it saves any mishaps happening
551
00:29:07,080 --> 00:29:10,215
so he can run with the ladies
as well.
552
00:29:10,240 --> 00:29:14,095
Right. Hannah's just going
to have a listen to his heart.
553
00:29:14,120 --> 00:29:16,455
Hannah's in charge
of the an aesthetic.
554
00:29:16,480 --> 00:29:18,815
Nice and steady.
Be brave, Elvis.
555
00:29:18,840 --> 00:29:20,495
Do you think
he's got a suspicious mind?
556
00:29:20,520 --> 00:29:22,095
THEY CHUCKLE
557
00:29:22,120 --> 00:29:24,375
HANNAH: A little less conversation,
please.
558
00:29:24,400 --> 00:29:26,055
THEY LAUGH
559
00:29:26,080 --> 00:29:29,335
It looks like he's going to sleep.
Well, I hope he does.
560
00:29:29,360 --> 00:29:31,895
Come on, darling, let's go.
561
00:29:31,920 --> 00:29:34,255
Where do you want him, Peter?
Yeah, that'll be lovely.
562
00:29:34,280 --> 00:29:37,815
Peter's been witnessing the lengths
dedicated animal lovers will go to
563
00:29:37,840 --> 00:29:40,335
in their quest to help donkeys.
564
00:29:40,360 --> 00:29:42,695
I'm not gonna look.
There's no blood, darling.
565
00:29:42,720 --> 00:29:46,335
It's only going to be a little bit.
OK, I'll have a look, then.
566
00:29:46,360 --> 00:29:50,215
And he can see there's also hope
for the future.
567
00:29:50,240 --> 00:29:53,375
When I'm older,
I want to be a vet like Peter.
568
00:29:53,400 --> 00:29:56,175
There's a lot of injured pets
in the world,
569
00:29:56,200 --> 00:30:00,175
so maybe I could give them
a little bit of help.
570
00:30:00,200 --> 00:30:02,855
Lovely, Elvis,
these are the bits we want.
571
00:30:02,880 --> 00:30:04,295
Let's crack on.
572
00:30:06,040 --> 00:30:08,295
In my opinion,
donkeys aren't as straightforward
573
00:30:08,320 --> 00:30:10,575
as castrating a pony or a horse.
574
00:30:10,600 --> 00:30:12,935
The tissues are much more delicate,
575
00:30:12,960 --> 00:30:16,455
which makes
the operation a little more tricky.
576
00:30:16,480 --> 00:30:18,255
That's one off.
577
00:30:19,840 --> 00:30:22,095
You go in the other side now.
578
00:30:22,120 --> 00:30:24,455
How are we doing with it?
579
00:30:24,480 --> 00:30:26,735
We've got both testicles removed
now.
580
00:30:26,760 --> 00:30:29,095
Elvis is quite happy.
581
00:30:29,120 --> 00:30:31,135
He knows nothing
about what's going on.
582
00:30:31,160 --> 00:30:35,015
Lizzie is quite rightly
asking relevant questions,
583
00:30:35,040 --> 00:30:37,295
as I was expecting
a supervisor to do.
584
00:30:37,320 --> 00:30:39,895
How are you getting on now?
585
00:30:39,920 --> 00:30:41,775
You are a taskmaster, aren't you?
586
00:30:44,280 --> 00:30:48,175
Come on, mister.
Well, that's a lovely recovery.
587
00:30:48,200 --> 00:30:49,735
He's back on his feet now,
588
00:30:49,760 --> 00:30:52,775
and Elvis is now going
to enter the building.
589
00:30:52,800 --> 00:30:54,055
PETER LAUGHS
590
00:30:56,360 --> 00:30:58,215
Elvis is very special.
591
00:30:58,240 --> 00:31:01,095
I think he's one of the sweetest
donkeys that you could meet.
592
00:31:01,120 --> 00:31:05,415
I just don't understand how anybody
could hurt these wonderful animals.
593
00:31:05,440 --> 00:31:08,295
He's got nothing but personality,
594
00:31:08,320 --> 00:31:12,175
and everybody loves him,
and I think he's a wonderful pet.
595
00:31:12,200 --> 00:31:13,735
He has a very kind face as well,
596
00:31:13,760 --> 00:31:18,575
and I think he's got a long and
happy and healthy life ahead of him.
597
00:31:18,600 --> 00:31:21,775
Good boy, aren't you?
Who's a good donkey?
598
00:31:32,800 --> 00:31:36,575
From an uplifting day with
a young girl who dotes on her donkey
599
00:31:36,600 --> 00:31:41,015
to one of the worst cases of animal
neglect that Peter has ever seen.
600
00:31:42,760 --> 00:31:47,215
He's heading back to
Donkey Sanctuary HQ for an update.
601
00:31:47,240 --> 00:31:49,975
Well, here I am
in sunny Devon again,
602
00:31:50,000 --> 00:31:55,535
and I'm on my way to meet
some donkeys from Operation Dawn.
603
00:31:55,560 --> 00:31:57,895
DONKEYS BRNHNG
604
00:31:57,920 --> 00:32:01,255
Some time ago,
I saw footage of these donkeys
605
00:32:01,280 --> 00:32:03,815
on the evening
that they were rescued,
606
00:32:03,840 --> 00:32:06,135
and it was a very sorrowful sight.
607
00:32:11,280 --> 00:32:14,735
So, I'm coming today to see
how The Donkey Sanctuary have fared
608
00:32:14,760 --> 00:32:16,815
with them, how they're getting on,
609
00:32:16,840 --> 00:32:19,175
and to see the progress
that's been made.
610
00:32:22,160 --> 00:32:24,495
Morning, Josie.
Hi, Peter. How are you doing?
611
00:32:24,520 --> 00:32:26,855
These are Operation Dawn donkeys,
aren't they?
612
00:32:26,880 --> 00:32:29,295
How are you getting on with them
now? I'm desperate to ask.
613
00:32:29,320 --> 00:32:30,695
They're doing so well.
614
00:32:30,720 --> 00:32:32,535
They've really blossomed
in our care.
615
00:32:32,560 --> 00:32:34,455
So, yeah,
it's a really proud moment
616
00:32:34,480 --> 00:32:36,655
to see them so happy
and healthy now with us.
617
00:32:37,960 --> 00:32:40,455
DONKEY SNORTS,
PETER ANDjOSIE LAUGH
618
00:32:40,480 --> 00:32:43,095
I think looking at this group
619
00:32:43,120 --> 00:32:45,975
and the clips that we saw
when they were first rescued,
620
00:32:46,000 --> 00:32:50,055
it's almost like looking at a
different group of animals, really,
621
00:32:50,080 --> 00:32:52,895
not only physically,
but mentally as well.
622
00:32:52,920 --> 00:32:54,895
SNORTS
623
00:32:54,920 --> 00:32:57,495
I'm not sure whether it was you
that undid my shoelace or not.
624
00:32:57,520 --> 00:33:00,215
You're looking innocent,
but I'm not so sure that you are.
625
00:33:00,240 --> 00:33:02,575
LAUGHS
626
00:33:02,600 --> 00:33:05,215
There's a pair of donkeys I'd quite
like you to meet, if you like.
627
00:33:05,240 --> 00:33:06,575
Yes, I'd love to.
We'll go this way.
628
00:33:06,600 --> 00:33:08,215
Well, I'll see you later, children.
629
00:33:11,160 --> 00:33:14,615
With the legalities of
the complex rescue case now tied up,
630
00:33:14,640 --> 00:33:19,495
josie's had an exciting update about
two of the Operation Dawn donkeys.
631
00:33:21,200 --> 00:33:23,215
This is Linda and Lola.
632
00:33:23,240 --> 00:33:25,735
These guys came in
much like the rest of the group,
633
00:33:25,760 --> 00:33:28,495
with poor dental health,
overgrown feet,
634
00:33:28,520 --> 00:33:30,855
matted coats, heavy lice burden.
635
00:33:30,880 --> 00:33:33,375
Ancl then once we'd sorted out
their health problems,
636
00:33:33,400 --> 00:33:35,735
we could then start
to see their characteristics,
637
00:33:35,760 --> 00:33:38,295
and it was obvious that
they had a bond with each other.
638
00:33:38,320 --> 00:33:40,735
They would spend all their time
together, eat together,
639
00:33:40,760 --> 00:33:43,095
sleep together,
which was lovely to see.
640
00:33:43,120 --> 00:33:46,055
So presumably, then, you're going
to be looking for a home
641
00:33:46,080 --> 00:33:47,455
for these two together.
642
00:33:47,480 --> 00:33:49,935
We are looking to rehome these two.
Oh, how lovely.
643
00:33:49,960 --> 00:33:52,375
Would you like
to give them a little treat?
644
00:33:52,400 --> 00:33:54,135
Oh, I'd love to.
Josie CHUCKLES
645
00:33:54,160 --> 00:33:56,015
PETER LAUGHS
646
00:33:57,240 --> 00:34:00,495
It's very obvious to see that the
work that Ben and Josie have clone,
647
00:34:00,520 --> 00:34:04,495
from when we saw the clips
of all these donkeys that came in
648
00:34:04,520 --> 00:34:05,695
on Operation Dawn.
649
00:34:05,720 --> 00:34:08,055
And you now see
how the character's developed,
650
00:34:08,080 --> 00:34:11,975
been brought out, getting them
to show their trust in humans again.
651
00:34:12,000 --> 00:34:16,015
Now we're seeing
the full character as it should be.
652
00:34:16,040 --> 00:34:19,375
Now, then, there we are.
Go on, Lola! That's it.
653
00:34:19,400 --> 00:34:22,375
Last one now.
We're out of carrots now.
654
00:34:23,960 --> 00:34:26,535
PETER LAUGHS
655
00:34:33,920 --> 00:34:36,375
The charity has sites
all across the UK
656
00:34:36,400 --> 00:34:39,015
where rescues await their new homes.
657
00:34:41,080 --> 00:34:44,375
So after a busy morning at the
practice in North Yorkshire...
658
00:34:44,400 --> 00:34:46,375
PETER EXHALES
659
00:34:46,400 --> 00:34:48,575
Prickly little customer, aren't you?
660
00:34:50,800 --> 00:34:52,975
...Peter's made the short trip
to Malton...
661
00:34:54,760 --> 00:34:57,775
...to meet two donkeys
who've been on the waiting list
662
00:34:57,800 --> 00:34:59,215
for over 16 months.
663
00:35:02,560 --> 00:35:04,415
Who is this, Charly?
This is Ned.
664
00:35:04,440 --> 00:35:09,375
So, Ned and his friend jack were
living on an allotment somewhere.
665
00:35:09,400 --> 00:35:12,415
Ancl myself and my colleagues are
sort of the front-line
666
00:35:12,440 --> 00:35:14,775
in terms of looking after donkeys
667
00:35:14,800 --> 00:35:17,215
that are in
welfare compromised positions.
668
00:35:17,240 --> 00:35:19,215
So we do see some horrible things
669
00:35:19,240 --> 00:35:21,495
that you would never wish
on any donkey.
670
00:35:21,520 --> 00:35:23,095
Since you've had them here,
671
00:35:23,120 --> 00:35:25,455
have you noticed a change
in them at all?
672
00:35:25,480 --> 00:35:28,415
They were both quite timid initially
when they first came here,
673
00:35:28,440 --> 00:35:30,775
and Ned's come on
in leaps and bounds.
674
00:35:30,800 --> 00:35:34,415
He very much enjoys being around
people and a good scratch.
675
00:35:34,440 --> 00:35:37,855
Jack will enjoy that
if he gets to know you.
676
00:35:37,880 --> 00:35:40,375
He's just a little bit timid
initially,
677
00:35:40,400 --> 00:35:43,535
so he's looking for a home where
someone's got that time to spend
678
00:35:43,560 --> 00:35:46,295
with him to build that trust
and that confidence.
679
00:35:47,800 --> 00:35:50,495
With his mission to see
as many donkeys as possible
680
00:35:50,520 --> 00:35:53,175
living happily ever after
by Christmas...
681
00:35:53,200 --> 00:35:56,415
While Ned's been having
our undivided attention,
682
00:35:56,440 --> 00:35:59,375
jack has thought
it was worth gradually,
683
00:35:59,400 --> 00:36:02,655
slowly but surely,
sidling over to see us as well.
684
00:36:02,680 --> 00:36:05,655
...Peter is daring to dream.
685
00:36:09,840 --> 00:36:13,575
It would be absolutely great
if we could find these two a home
686
00:36:13,600 --> 00:36:17,575
and free up a bit more space
for the donkeys that are in need.
687
00:36:17,600 --> 00:36:22,015
Ancl so if we could find a place
in Yorkshire for these two lads,
688
00:36:22,040 --> 00:36:23,455
then I'll be very happy.
689
00:36:25,040 --> 00:36:28,295
All you want is someone
to love you long-term,
690
00:36:28,320 --> 00:36:29,815
in't it, that's all you want?
691
00:36:29,840 --> 00:36:31,895
Ancl your pal, jack, to be with you.
692
00:36:31,920 --> 00:36:33,855
And then you're happy then,
aren't you?
693
00:36:33,880 --> 00:36:35,575
Ancl we'll make sure.
694
00:36:35,600 --> 00:36:39,415
If it's at all possible,
somewhere in beautiful Yorkshire.
695
00:36:44,800 --> 00:36:46,415
Still to come...
696
00:36:46,440 --> 00:36:48,375
I'm going to be there
as soon as I can.
697
00:36:48,400 --> 00:36:51,495
...with Peter's donkey work
nearly done,
698
00:36:51,520 --> 00:36:54,255
will it end with a new home
for Christmas?
699
00:36:54,280 --> 00:36:56,455
Hi, Peter. Glad you made it.
700
00:37:05,800 --> 00:37:07,535
LIZZIE: Elvis!
701
00:37:07,560 --> 00:37:09,815
PETER DAVISON:
With Christmas fast approaching...
702
00:37:09,840 --> 00:37:10,855
Come here, boy.
703
00:37:10,880 --> 00:37:13,295
...in his aim to find some donkeys
in care
704
00:37:13,320 --> 00:37:15,935
a loving home and doting owner...
Aw.
705
00:37:17,440 --> 00:37:19,935
...Peter is running out of time.
706
00:37:19,960 --> 00:37:22,295
He's been on a journey
that's shown him
707
00:37:22,320 --> 00:37:26,695
just how much work goes into
rehabilitating mistreated donkeys.
708
00:37:26,720 --> 00:37:29,055
And after a call
from The Donkey Sanctuary,
709
00:37:29,080 --> 00:37:34,095
about two of those rescued in
the infamous mission Operation Dawn,
710
00:37:34,120 --> 00:37:36,855
he's come to meetjosie
in Suffolk...
711
00:37:36,880 --> 00:37:39,215
Josie.
Hi, Peter.
712
00:37:39,240 --> 00:37:43,535
...which is where they found Linda
and Lola a forever home
713
00:37:43,560 --> 00:37:45,255
with Anne and Nick.
714
00:37:45,280 --> 00:37:46,895
Hello.
Hiya. Do you remember these two?
715
00:37:46,920 --> 00:37:51,215
Yes. Do you know? They've been
on our minds, really, Nick.
716
00:37:51,240 --> 00:37:52,175
They're just so calm.
717
00:37:52,200 --> 00:37:54,535
They settled in here just so well,
it's just been amazing.
718
00:37:54,560 --> 00:37:56,295
They look great.
They look really good.
719
00:37:56,320 --> 00:37:58,215
Really happy. Hi.
720
00:37:59,520 --> 00:38:02,895
You have a different story to tell
because you were involved
721
00:38:02,920 --> 00:38:05,855
with this horrendous rescue,
Operation Dawn,
722
00:38:05,880 --> 00:38:08,215
when it was on such a huge scale.
723
00:38:08,240 --> 00:38:11,735
It's amazing to see how far they've
come from when they arrived to now.
724
00:38:11,760 --> 00:38:13,175
This is what we wanted, isn't it?
725
00:38:13,200 --> 00:38:14,815
Isn't it?
A happy ending.
726
00:38:14,840 --> 00:38:18,455
Well, when you see the lab ours
of your love and the end result,
727
00:38:18,480 --> 00:38:20,015
it must be very satisfying for you.
728
00:38:20,040 --> 00:38:21,455
Yeah, it's really rewarding,
729
00:38:21,480 --> 00:38:24,055
and it makes everything,
all the hard work really worthwhile
730
00:38:24,080 --> 00:38:26,095
to see them come somewhere
like this,
731
00:38:26,120 --> 00:38:28,935
clearly enriching Nick and Anne's
life as well as their own.
732
00:38:31,000 --> 00:38:34,175
They have definitely have enriched
our lives in the last few weeks.
733
00:38:34,200 --> 00:38:35,815
Absolutely amazing.
Yes.
734
00:38:35,840 --> 00:38:38,175
After a stressful day,
you just sit and stroke them
735
00:38:38,200 --> 00:38:39,775
for half an hour
and forget about everything.
736
00:38:39,800 --> 00:38:43,575
They're so trusting as well,
given where they were from
737
00:38:43,600 --> 00:38:46,175
and how they were kept
and how far they've come.
738
00:38:46,200 --> 00:38:47,975
It's really lovely to see, isn't it?
739
00:38:51,240 --> 00:38:53,775
No, I think they came
to the right place. Definitely.
740
00:38:53,800 --> 00:38:56,935
No doubt about that, is there?
PETER LAUGHS
741
00:38:56,960 --> 00:38:59,135
Do you like your new home?
I think you do, don't you?
742
00:39:04,760 --> 00:39:07,815
I'm going to go away very happy,
as I'm sure you are as well.
743
00:39:07,840 --> 00:39:12,935
Ancl I think all we need do now
is wish Nick and Anne,
744
00:39:12,960 --> 00:39:16,055
and of course Lola and Linda,
a very happy Christmas.
745
00:39:16,080 --> 00:39:17,535
And I'm sure they“ have one.
746
00:39:21,360 --> 00:39:24,695
My work's clone now, and I'm
gonna head off for Christmas.
747
00:39:24,720 --> 00:39:27,415
Back up home. Back up north.
748
00:39:32,320 --> 00:39:34,655
But as Peter heads for home,
749
00:39:34,680 --> 00:39:38,375
there might just be time
for one more Christmas miracle.
750
00:39:38,400 --> 00:39:40,175
Hello, Charly. How are you?
751
00:39:40,200 --> 00:39:42,535
CHARLY: '|'m just ringing
with some good news.'
752
00:39:42,560 --> 00:39:44,895
Going to be there
as soon as I can.
753
00:39:44,920 --> 00:39:49,295
He recently met two donkeys
at the sanctuary in Malton,
754
00:39:49,320 --> 00:39:54,695
and he was desperate to find a home
in Yorkshire for Ned and jack.
755
00:39:57,440 --> 00:40:00,455
Charly.
Hi, Peter. Glad you made it.
756
00:40:00,480 --> 00:40:03,135
Fantastic news.
Yes, brilliant news.
757
00:40:03,160 --> 00:40:06,095
Hello, children.
You're going to a forever home.
758
00:40:06,120 --> 00:40:09,015
You'll be really pleased to know
they're staying in Yorkshire, Peter.
759
00:40:09,040 --> 00:40:11,775
Oh, boys.
You're staying in God's own country!
760
00:40:11,800 --> 00:40:14,215
It doesn't get any better than that,
does it?
761
00:40:14,240 --> 00:40:17,935
What greater Christmas present
could you have than that, 'ey?
762
00:40:21,760 --> 00:40:24,175
Be a good boy, Ned.
Up steps.
763
00:40:24,200 --> 00:40:26,535
The home that they're going to
is lovely,
764
00:40:26,560 --> 00:40:28,735
and the lady just wants
to spend time with them.
765
00:40:30,720 --> 00:40:33,895
And because new owner Leslie
needed everything to fall into place
766
00:40:33,920 --> 00:40:36,855
before fulfilling this dream...
767
00:40:36,880 --> 00:40:38,375
I've waited years and years,
768
00:40:38,400 --> 00:40:40,815
so I wasn't sure whether the donkeys
would actually arrive
769
00:40:40,840 --> 00:40:43,175
before or after Christmas.
770
00:40:43,200 --> 00:40:47,415
...she's had plenty of time
to plan her life with Ned and jack.
771
00:40:48,640 --> 00:40:50,295
Hello, Jack.
772
00:40:50,320 --> 00:40:53,255
Just sitting here, spending time
with them, looking after them.
773
00:40:53,280 --> 00:40:56,935
Caring for them how they should've
been cared for from the beginning.
774
00:40:56,960 --> 00:40:59,215
You can't ask for anything more
for Christmas.
775
00:41:00,680 --> 00:41:02,215
Look where we are, Jack.
776
00:41:02,240 --> 00:41:08,655
This is your new home where you'll
spend the rest of your happy life,
777
00:41:08,680 --> 00:41:10,855
and you're best pal's with you
as well, in't he?
778
00:41:13,240 --> 00:41:14,895
Oh.
Hi, Leslie.
779
00:41:14,920 --> 00:41:18,415
Leslie, nice to see you.
Aw.
780
00:41:18,440 --> 00:41:23,615
Here's jack and Ned to come and stay
with you in their forever home.
781
00:41:23,640 --> 00:41:26,455
They are so beautiful,
to get my hands on them.
782
00:41:26,480 --> 00:41:28,655
You would agree, wouldn't you?
Hello, jack.
783
00:41:30,960 --> 00:41:32,095
Hello.
784
00:41:32,120 --> 00:41:34,495
I did make the Christmas wish
785
00:41:34,520 --> 00:41:37,895
that wherever they were homed,
it just had to be Yorkshire.
786
00:41:37,920 --> 00:41:40,615
Ancl you fulfilled my dreams
as well as theirs.
787
00:41:40,640 --> 00:41:41,895
Mine too.
788
00:41:41,920 --> 00:41:44,575
Ancl they deserve the best.
They do, and they'll get it.
789
00:41:44,600 --> 00:41:47,375
It looks as if they've got it.
790
00:41:47,400 --> 00:41:50,415
It's just unbelievable.
It's brought tears to my eyes.
791
00:41:50,440 --> 00:41:52,695
I've waited years
and years and years.
792
00:41:52,720 --> 00:41:55,815
It's just like a final picture.
793
00:41:55,840 --> 00:41:58,295
Well, Lesley, as the saying goes,
794
00:41:58,320 --> 00:42:00,295
"A donkey's for life,
not just for Christmas."
795
00:42:00,320 --> 00:42:03,295
Absolutely. But actually,
they are here for Christmas.
796
00:42:03,320 --> 00:42:06,735
They are. Ancl I think they're going
to have a very, very happy Christmas
797
00:42:06,760 --> 00:42:09,255
and many, many more.
Every Christmas thereafter, yeah.
798
00:42:11,120 --> 00:42:13,295
Shall we go and have a look?
Come on, then.
799
00:42:15,240 --> 00:42:18,455
And explore all this.
PETER CH UCKLES
800
00:42:20,760 --> 00:42:22,055
Look how they've settled in.
801
00:42:22,080 --> 00:42:24,855
It's as if they've been here
all their lives. It is.
802
00:42:24,880 --> 00:42:29,415
I think Ned and jack both look
as if they've lived here
803
00:42:29,440 --> 00:42:31,535
for some considerable time.
804
00:42:31,560 --> 00:42:34,495
Ancl I know they're going to get lots
of love and care from Leslie
805
00:42:34,520 --> 00:42:35,815
in the future.
806
00:42:35,840 --> 00:42:37,335
It's happening already.
807
00:42:39,040 --> 00:42:41,255
Here they are now,
at their forever home.
808
00:42:42,680 --> 00:42:47,415
As it's Christmas,
and there's plenty to celebrate,
809
00:42:47,440 --> 00:42:49,255
Peter's decided he'll be Santa...
810
00:42:49,280 --> 00:42:50,855
Thank you.
811
00:42:50,880 --> 00:42:54,735
...handing out the gifts
and eyeing up the mulled wine
812
00:42:54,760 --> 00:42:58,015
with Ned and jack
getting Rudolph's carrots.
813
00:42:58,040 --> 00:43:02,895
Cheers, and here's the best
Christmas ever for Ned and Jack.
814
00:43:02,920 --> 00:43:07,695
# Little donkey, little donkey
815
00:43:07,720 --> 00:43:11,055
# On the dusty road
816
00:43:12,640 --> 00:43:17,815
# Got to keep on plodding onwards
817
00:43:17,840 --> 00:43:22,295
# With your precious load... #
818
00:43:23,640 --> 00:43:28,335
When I set out on my donkey journey,
I wanted to learn a little bit more
819
00:43:28,360 --> 00:43:30,975
about the work
that the sanctuary do.
820
00:43:31,000 --> 00:43:35,295
But if truth be told, I've learnt
an awful lot more than that.
821
00:43:35,320 --> 00:43:38,975
# Little donkey, little donkey
822
00:43:39,000 --> 00:43:43,375
#journey's end is near... #
823
00:43:43,400 --> 00:43:45,975
We have some of the most
dedicated people in the country
824
00:43:46,000 --> 00:43:48,175
working tirelessly to save donkeys.
825
00:43:49,960 --> 00:43:52,295
Ancl thanks to
these fantastic people,
826
00:43:52,320 --> 00:43:56,015
these animals are learning to trust
humans once again.
827
00:43:56,040 --> 00:43:58,295
# Little donkey... #
828
00:43:58,320 --> 00:44:00,015
There's a lot more work to do,
829
00:44:00,040 --> 00:44:02,575
and a lot more donkeys
that need our help.
830
00:44:02,600 --> 00:44:06,535
But when I'm enjoying this Christmas
at home with my friends and family,
831
00:44:06,560 --> 00:44:09,015
I'm going to be thinking
about Ned and jack
832
00:44:09,040 --> 00:44:12,335
in their forever home in Yorkshire.
833
00:44:12,360 --> 00:44:15,895
Ancl as a donkey lover,
a vet and a Yorkshire man,
834
00:44:15,920 --> 00:44:19,335
that's the best Christmas present
that I could possibly have.
835
00:44:20,520 --> 00:44:25,175
# Little donkey, carry Mary
836
00:44:25,200 --> 00:44:31,935
# Safely on her way. #