8 July 2026, 3pm

Sadly and exceedingly quickly Lulu became very poorly today. After tests, the veterinary team at Liphook felt there was nothing more they could do to ensure Lulu’s quality of life and together we made the tough decision to help Lulu pass.

As you can imagine we are devastated. We will leave this page up for a while for people who wish to donate in memory of Lulu or who wish to read her story.

RIP beautiful Lulu.

We will be in touch with everyone who has already donated soon.

Lulu is an 11-year-old donkey who arrived at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary in March 2026. She had been living in the New Forest in a larger herd and came to the sanctuary with 5 other donkeys. As she settled in, our staff noticed she seemed to be in distress and was shaking her head, swishing her tail and withdrawing to her shelter.

In mid-June Lulu travelled to Liphook Equine Hospital on the mainland accompanied by her companion Dilly donkey. A CT scan revealed bone fragments, damage and disease in her shoulder - possibly the result of being struck by a vehicle during her years roaming the forest, a long time before she arrived at the sanctuary.

Lulu has since undergone complex surgery to fuse the joint, a procedure that carries significant risks in a larger donkey. Lulu has come through the operation successfully and is doing well. We’ve just found out she will be in hospital for an 8 week recovery period before coming back to the Island.

The surgery alone cost nearly £10,000, with overall costs for Lulu’s entire treatment, including the extended hospital stay, anticipated to exceed £15,000. There will be further recovery time back at the sanctuary before Lulu can rejoin her herd.

The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is Lulu’s forever home. We are committed to giving Lulu the best possible life with us, but this surgery was completely unexpected. Every donation you can support us with will help to cover the costs. If giving isn't possible right now, sharing her story with your friends and family will make a real difference too.