Maudie and Neddy O'Shea:
MAUDIE
A very elderly donkey mare relinquished on 6th June 2004 from Ballinameen, Boyle when her owner was in poor health and unable to keep her.
She had a prominent hard lump on her cheekbone and was extremely tender on her feet. The farrier, Mark Carter, gave her a poor prognosis as the hoof wall and laminae were completely rotted away.
She was treated with Alamycin spray to kill bacteria, and her front feet were cleaned daily and padded with foam rubber and encased in boots.
She was fed Biotin supplement to encourage hoof growth and after two years has grown enough hoof to allow for trimming. A quiet, sad little donkey, cream/fawn colour. Not a great appetite – did not know about titbits or grain but has learned since and become very affectionate. Something of a nurse as she attaches herself to whichever donkey is in poor health at the time and remains devoted until they either die, or recover. Special girl!
June 2007 - Maudie passed away quietly in her sleep. Much loved and missed. More images of Maudie can be seen here
NEDDY O'SHEA
Arrived in October 2003. A darling old donkey relinquished when his owners who live in Dublin inherited him with the farm from an Uncle in Ballinasloe.
Aged around 40 years. An old working donkey, pale grey and a pure gentleman. In good condition except his feet had been very long and were badly, and severely, trimmed by a well meaning neighbour before travelling. He took some time to recover enough to be able to walk comfortably. A cheerful character, and friendly with visitors. His tail had been shaved before arrival, presumably because it was dirty, but has finally grown again enough to flick off a few Summer flies.
