UPDATE: Urge Ontario Authorities to Assist Donkey With Severely Overgrown Hooves

Update (April 22, 2023): Thank you to everyone who spoke up in behalf of this animal! PETA received an update from PAWS confirming that the donkey’s situation was investigated and that the animal subsequently received care. Our caseworkers will continue to monitor the situation.

Original text:

PETA has been alerted to the plight of an allegedly neglected donkey who is reportedly located on Settlers Road in Lindsay, Ontario. A video taken at the end of January depicts a donkey with extremely overgrown hooves that have started curling upwards—a painful phenomenon often referred to as “sleigh hoof” or “slipper foot.”

Equine experts agree that hooves need to be trimmed about every six to eight weeks. An eyewitness alleges that this donkey appears not to have received farrier care for five years. Without routine hoof trimming, excruciatingly painful conditions and lifelong or even life-threatening deformities can occur. Reportedly, this donkey struggles to walk and appears to be in extreme pain with each step.

The Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act prohibits engaging in acts that cause distress to animals or failing to follow applicable standards of care. Although PETA caseworkers reported the situation to local authorities, our requests for updates have been ignored. Nearly three months have passed since our initial report, but recent footage seems to show that little or no change has occurred. This animal needs you to speak up!