Waking up not knowing who your parents are delivers a unique kind of distress, a feeling too well-known for a baby donkey named Ben, who found himself alone from the moment of his birth in a UK-based animal sanctuary. His cries for his mother, who would never return, echoed poignantly through his new home. It’s a harsh reality for some young animals; maternal rejection sometimes occurs for reasons tied to survival, such as food scarcity compelling a mother to abandon her offspring. In Ben’s case, his mother was already pregnant upon arrival at the sanctuary and inexplicably rejected him shortly after his birth, leaving him to face the world without even the comfort of her touch.
The sanctuary staff stepped in to fill the void left by Ben’s mother, taking turns to bottle-feed him every four hours throughout the night. Their dedication extended beyond mere nutrition; they also taught him to navigate his surroundings and socialize with other donkeys. Despite their best efforts, the caregivers knew that what Ben needed most was a maternal bond—a figure to provide both comfort and guidance as he grew. That role would soon be filled by Jingles, a mare with experience in motherhood but no current companion, making her an ideal match for young Ben.
The introduction of Jingles to Ben was not without its challenges. Initially, Ben was skittish and unsure, often darting away whenever Jingles approached. However, Jingles’ maternal instincts proved to be persistent and nurturing. She patiently coaxed Ben into trusting her, and after several hours, their breakthrough came. Ben finally allowed himself to be close to Jingles, who responded with a reassuring nuzzle. This moment marked a significant turn in Ben’s life, as he experienced the comforting embrace of a mother figure for the first time, igniting a bond that would deeply influence his development.
A year into his life with Jingles, Ben transformed into a confident and sociable donkey, well-integrated into the sanctuary’s herd. His newfound independence and manners spoke volumes about the impact of the care he received from both the staff and his adoptive mother, Jingles. Even as he grew and began to forge his own connections within the herd, Jingles remained a protective and somewhat fussing presence in his life, embodying the enduring nature of a mother’s love. Ben’s journey from a frightened orphan to a thriving member of the community is a testament to the sanctuary’s commitment and the profound connection between animals, offering hope and a touching reminder of the resilience found in the bonds of care and affection.