Donkeys are not only self-appointed security guards, they are very big helpers….and a little nosy! Like all of our residents…the donkeys too have a past…a story….”a place at the table”…and a future. TicTac was a stray and very feral from repeated abuse and a lack of proper socialization. Lizzie came to us wild…untouchable, highly mistrusting, and extremely frightened. Today, they are the appointed leaders amongst our jennies; social, happy, content, very loving…and wonderful role models for the other girls in their paddock. Throughout the warmer months, donkeys require extra care to treat (and prevent) fly bites. This is what formerly wild and feral donkeys look like when they are getting their daily first aid. No longer highly suspicious and defensive, but rather suspiciously snooping through pockets…because surely there must be another treat…and causing us (in this case, Sandy Brimer) to gently and laughingly defend ourselves from the inquisitive assault of very soft, insistent lips that tickle, prod, and gently invade our pockets and the corners of our hearts. They lean into us, on us…sometimes even under us, as if trying with all of their wonderful donkey persistence to make up for the loneliness and lack of loving touch of the past. They make us laugh, and yes, reach for just one more treat…and reach around and stroke the warm softness of what was once untouchable.