Elisabeth Svendsen Trust

I have not had much time to write my diary over the last few weeks as there has been so much going on at the Adoption paddock! First, Busby and I were the star attractions during a ‘Help for Heroes’ sponsored cycle ride and then the big Marquee went up, signalling the start of Donkey Week. I was just settling down to some rest and relaxation time in the field, when I spotted one of my grooms coming towards me with a head collar. For a moment, I thought she must have confused me with one of the younger donkeys and be taking me down to work in the Slade Centre. Then I remembered what happens this time every year when the sun comes out… it was clipping time!

I think clipping, along with bath time and the dentist, rates amongst my least favourite things. I have never liked the noise of the clippers whirring away around my ears, especially when it took so long to grow my thick, winter coat in the first place! After my initial dismay, I must admit (and don’t let my grooms hear me say this) but I do feel much more comfortable without it. All that hair was starting to weigh me down. When I got back to the paddock, it felt so good, I forgot myself and started running around the field kicking my heels up like a youngster. I mustn’t be seen doing that too often or people will start to wonder why I am retiring! Now, got to get back to my favourite people-watching spot in the field… a donkey’s work is never done!