Donkeys at a sanctuary in Devon have been given a clever new way to scratch their backs — thanks to old street sweeper brushes that were saved from being thrown away.
The brushes were donated by East Devon District Council’s StreetScene team to The Donkey Sanctuary’s Donkey Assisted Activity centre in Sidmouth. After being used for several weeks to clean local streets, the large plastic-bristled brushes would normally be discarded.
Instead, they were carefully cleaned and repurposed for the sanctuary’s herd.
Staff mounted the brushes in the paddocks, allowing the donkeys to rub against them whenever they need to scratch places they can’t easily reach. The donkeys quickly took to the new addition and have been enjoying the unusual grooming tool.
The brushes are also helping the animals shed their thick winter coats as the weather gets warmer. Because several brushes were donated, staff were able to place them at different heights so donkeys of all sizes can use them comfortably.
Councillor Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment – Operations, praised the idea as a simple but meaningful example of recycling. He said it was wonderful to see items that would otherwise have become waste being reused in a way that supports a local charity and benefits the animals.
The Donkey Assisted Activity centre works with people in the local community, using its resident donkeys to support wellbeing and personal development sessions. These activities help participants build confidence and learn skills for handling difficult situations.
Sid Miller, an equine assistant at the centre, said the team was very grateful for the donation. He added that it has been lovely to see the donkeys already enjoying the brushes, while also knowing that useful materials have been kept out of the waste stream.
For the sanctuary, the project is a “double win” — happier donkeys and a smart example of reuse.