Don Quixote continued on his journey, crossing the rainbow bridge to meet his friends who passed before him. Come celebrate the life of Don Quixote, our miracle donkey on Sunday, December 10th at 11:30 am. Please bring your stories and pictures to share. If you can find it in your heart to donate in Don Quixote's memory, your kind donation will help us continue.
From our Founder, Cynthia Haberin:
HBI is a special rescue. Instead of horses we can bring in to turn around to help them find a family, we bring in the old, ill, with problems no one else wants. The throwaways. Part of our mission is to create a space for these animals to pass Peacefully. We care for them and give them a fabulous end of life.
That being said, as it is what we chose to do, it does not mean at all that it is easy on us when they decide to leave us.
Don Quixote said goodbye to us and is onto his next adventure. HBI's miracle donkey has gone over the rainbow bridge where his dear friend Oreo waits for him. The volunteers will cry, miss him daily, and take time to mourn.
Don Quixote taught us that donkeys are the best. We learned a lot at HBI from him. We learned that donkeys are very different from horses. We learned to love him, learned his constant patience and the gentleness of donkeys. We learned he is an amazing friend as well as braying for danger... he did not "talk" for no reason. Most of all, we learned to love donkeys and HBI is able to give them the best care they deserve.
Don Quixote quickly bonded with a miniature paint horse named Oreo. They both had paint coats, that's what made it special. Don went nowhere without Oreo by his side. He waited for her each day at her stall door, as they were let into their pasture.
They were so bonded that when Don became deathly sick with botulism, Oreo decided to colic as well. Both had numerous health issues over the years which we managed as best as we could.
Don Quixote and Oreo were favorites of our guests during fundraising events, cute, kind and curious ambassadors for Hay Burr Inn.
Being so closely bonded, Don has declined quickly, since Oreo passing this past January. Even when we helped two other donkeys he showed no interest, he continued to mourn his friend.
Now we believe they are together, pain free, with their gleaming painted coats, enjoying heaven. They will rest on earth side by side... Run free Don Quixote braying with Oreo whinnying, together.
This is Rescue. Some days are much harder than others. We will remember his good days, they were numerous!
We welcome all your reminisces of Hay Burr Inn and Don Quixote.