Hello Family & Friends,

I have heartbreaking news to share.

Many of you know all about our farm animals here and I always share their stories & photos.

Hazel and Harold, my senior equine, were retired petting zoo employees. Hazel, an ArabxCob pony at 29years old was the ultimate love for Harold , a 19 year old Mini Donkey.

They had been bonded for over 15 years and theirs was a unique, unusual and very special relationship.

I have so many stories about how loyal and dedicated Harold was to his Hazel and how much Hazel needed her man with her.

When we got the news that Hazel did not have much longer with us, and we had to make difficult decisions, we added Lexie Rose to our family. Hoping we could foster a bond between the three equine, the goal was to ease Harolds pain upon Hazels death.

Not So Fun Fact: A donkey will make themselves sick with depression. The disease is called Hyperlipaemia and is brought on by the stress of their loss.

Although the three equine all got along, and Harold even was doing more ‘donkey like’ behaviors with Lexie, when Hazel died he was distraught.

He slowly became distant from us and the other animals, even nipping at his long time friends to make them leave him alone. Over the past 4 weeks his health had declined, so with vet visits and conversations with donkey peoples, we tried several ways to increase his interest in life again. I had also begun looking for a third donkey, hoping a herd adventure would interest Harold.

When I returned Tuesday night from a brief stay in California, I went out to greet all my farm family. Harold was braying loudly at me, let me give him extra loves and seemed to be just overwhelmingly sad.

The next day Harold collapsed in my arms and did not get up. After working with him in the barn all night, Harold passed away in my arms during the early morning hours.

Lexie was around us the whole time, she understood that Harold wasn’t okay, and after giving her time to adjust to the loss of Harold, we buried him next to his love Hazel in our forest.

Lexie has been sad, anxious and extra clingy.

But I have found a pair of companions for her!

These mini donkeys are ready this week to play and explore in a forever home!

Lexie Rose Pinkie Pie really needs an active herd, friends who will be curious & playful with her.

I am using this GoFundMe to ask for Help.

We cannot risk waiting to get Lexie companions, however with the recent vet costs from Hazel & Harold we need assistance this week.

For local friends and family!

With your donation I will be offering a Petting Session & Photo Booth with our animals for Fun Christmas cards out here on the farm!

We appreciate any and all help!

With love, The Warren Family Farm