When most people think of pets, they think of dogs, cats, or fish, but many people have also discovered the beauty and charm of the donkey. Donkeys have been used as a working animal for at least 5,000 years, but they also make great pets. Intelligent and loyal, donkeys keep weeds to a minimum and protect small livestock from predators with a precise kick. As a result of so many people acquiring donkeys, unfortunately, there is also a pressing need for rehoming and caring for these gentle creatures. That’s just what Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, in San Angelo does.
Lifestyle
You’ll Get A Kick Out of Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue in San Angelo
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Satellite Sanctuaries all over the U.S.
Photo: Facebook/donkeyadoption
Located in San Angelo but with satellite sanctuaries all over the United States, Peaceful Valley’s mission is to provide a safe and loving environment to all donkeys that have been abused, neglected or are under threat of destruction. Peaceful Valley strives to provide solutions to the many problems that plague these wonderful creatures by proving ethical stewardship over the funds that are necessary to fulfill this goal. Peaceful Valley, with its nationwide network of ranch facilities and satellite adoption centers, is the country’s leader in rescue, sanctuary, adoption, and education. They work diligently to improve the plight of the American Donkey.
Started as a Backyard Hobby
Photo: Facebook/donkeyadoption
Mark and Amy Meyers started the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue as a backyard hobby over a decade ago. After purchasing their first donkey, Izzy, as a pet, Mark and Amy began to notice other donkeys in their community that were in various stages of abuse and neglect. Not knowing exactly what to do, Amy began buying up these donkeys and Mark spent his evenings talking to the donkeys and fixing their various ailments. It was after the 25th donkey came into the Meyers’ home that they decided to open an actual rescue so that they would be able to find safe, loving homes for their donkeys.
This simple gesture of love has turned into the largest rescue of its kind. Mark and Amy still stay involved in the day to day operations of the rescue but they also manage a large staff that ensures the wellbeing of the over 3,000 donkeys under their direct care. Under the Meyers’ direction, Peaceful Valley has grown to the largest rescue of its kind with facilities all across the United States.
In an interview with Texas Highways magazine, Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue founder, Mark Meyers said, “People have this misconception about donkeys, that they’re stupid, dumb, stubborn,” said Mark Meyers, dubbed “The Burro Man” by fellow animal conservationists. “We started this place to rescue donkeys, and there will always be a need for that. But, I also want to change people’s perceptions of these animals.”
To learn more about Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue and to see their adoptable donkeys, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.
