Donkeys delight patients, staff and visitors at North West Hospice, Sligo

There were smiles all round at North West Hospice on the Mall in Sligo when patients, staff and visitors were treated to a visit from some donkeys recently.

Each month these gentle therapy donkeys are kindly bought in to visit by the staff and volunteers of the Sathya Sai Sanctuary.

Denver and Dumphy, known for their friendly nature and soft, calming presence, spend time with patients and their families. Some reach out to stroke their velvety coats, or some simply enjoy watching them. For others, the visits spark happy memories of time spent with animals in earlier life; for many, it is a rare moment of connection and peace.

Jess Kelly Director of Nursing said that “We express our heartfelt thanks to the Sathya Sai Sanctuary team for making the visits possible. Animal assisted therapy has been shown to reduce stress, ease feelings of loneliness, and provide comfort in palliative care settings. The visits remind everyone that even small moments like a nuzzle, a smile, or a shared laugh can bring light and comfort during emotional times.”

The donkeys may have left hoofprints behind, but they also left something far more lasting in joy and warmth in the hearts of all who met them.

The donkeys are also looking forward to visiting the new hospice, which is under construction, when it opens in 2026.