About us

The Rifugio degli Asinelli is a non profit-making foundation working to improve conditions for donkeys and mules.

It was established in 2006 and is based in North Piedmont.

Our centre is located in Sala Biellese, deep in the green woodland of the Serra hills which run between the provinces of Biella and Ivrea. Our donkeys have a peaceful existence in the beautiful Alpine countryside after leading very hard lives.

We are the Italian arm of The Donkey Sanctuary, an English charity that has been working to improve donkey welfare since 1969.

We also investigate cases of mistreatment.

Mission statement

We aim to provide care for donkeys and mules; provide a home for mistreated or abandoned animals; rehabilitate them with the help of vets and specialist staff and offer mentally and physically handicapped children therapy sessions with specially trained donkeys.