Two young donkeys born at World Horse Welfare’s Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Aboyne are getting ready to celebrate a very special milestone — their first Christmas together in their forever home.
Peanut and Popcorn arrived at the centre last year after their mothers, Mia and Molly, were rescued while heavily pregnant. Born just ten weeks apart, the pair formed a close bond from the start. Because donkeys are highly social animals, it was clear they would need to be rehomed as a duo once they were old enough.
Finding a home for two animals at once can be challenging, as not every adopter has the space or resources to take on a pair. Fortunately, Peanut and Popcorn’s luck changed in late September when they were welcomed into a perfectly suited home.
Their new owner, Carol, recalls first learning about them through a friend who spotted their profiles on World Horse Welfare’s website.
“The moment I read about Peanut and Popcorn, I felt they might be just right for us,” Carol said. “But I wanted to think carefully before applying, since I already had two donkeys and needed to be sure it would work for everyone.”
After submitting her application, Carol visited Belwade Farm to meet the youngsters in person. It quickly became clear they would fit in well with her older donkeys, Duffy and Henrietta.
“They’ve settled in beautifully and have such big personalities,” Carol said. “They’re incredibly entertaining and have brought so much energy to the field. It’s lovely watching all four of them racing around together.”
Now fully settled, Peanut and Popcorn are preparing to enjoy their first festive season in their new surroundings — with many more to come.
“All my animals are here for life,” Carol added. “I truly hope this is the first of many happy Christmases for them. I can’t imagine the place without them now.”
Carol says her decision to rehome through a charity was inspired by the number of animals still waiting for help.
“I’ve always believed in giving animals a second chance,” she said. “By rehoming Peanut and Popcorn, I know I’ve helped make room for other horses or donkeys in need. The whole experience has been fantastic — the Belwade Farm team were welcoming, supportive and incredibly efficient. I’d absolutely encourage others to consider rehoming too.”