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Il Rifugio degli Asinelli (EN)

A grey donkey stood in an outside paddock in front of three donkeys grazing and a barn.

World leaders in donkey welfare

For over 50 years we have developed our standing as world leaders in donkey welfare. We discover and share all the great things that happen when you nurture the relationship between donkeys and humans.   

Who we are

An illustration of person holding the face of a grey donkey

Donkey experts

We are the world authority on donkey welfare. We share our knowledge and learn from others.

 Un'illustrazione del globo diviso in quattro pezzi del puzzle con il pezzo in basso a destra messo a posto da piccole persone.

Powerful partners

We deliver a positive impact for as many donkeys as possible by working with local experts to achieve mutual goals. 

Un'illustrazione di un asino marrone sdraiato sul fieno

Welfare champions

We stand up for donkeys. We challenge neglect and abuse. We celebrate and promote excellence.

A close up of two brown donkeys with white noses grazing in a field

What we do in Italy

We have a donkey sanctuary in North West Italy. Our work is focused on providing support, advice and guidance to owners, partners and the authorities to ensure the welfare of donkeys in the community. 

Our mission

Improving the lives of donkeys every day.

Our Vision

A world where every donkey has a good quality of life.

What we're working on

Donkeys' lives in Italy are being transformed for the better thanks to our passionate teams, supporters, volunteers and partners.
Two donkeys one grey and one black carrying big bags of bricks

Give relief to suffering donkeys

Right now donkeys are enduring terrible suffering. But you can help. 

Pledge a regular gift today, safe in the knowledge that your generosity is making a real difference. Thanks to the compassion of our supporters, donkeys live better lives right around the world. But there is still much to do - please give what you can today.   
 
While every euro is vital, please only give what you can afford. 

Our Impact in 2024

The Donkey Sanctuary’s teams across all operations continued to make an important impact on the lives of thousands of donkeys, mules and owners.
105
Donkeys in our direct care in Italy.
44
Donkeys residing in foster homes.
180
Pairs of Parisian socks kindly donated to protect our donkeys.
197
Donkeys aided through welfare interventions.

Resource Hub for Donkey Owners

Information and resources for donkey owners in both Italian and English.

Visit Us

Come and visit the donkeys and mules in our care.

Other ways to support us

Meet our adoption donkeys

Galileo is a beautiful donkey with a long, gorgeous coat.

A dark brown donkey with long hair grazing in a grassy field.

Alin is a playful donkey who spends his time devising pranks for his friends.

Clementina is a much-loved donkey with the nickname "Donkey Princess".

Marco the mule stands out with his elegant appearance and peppery character.