In the summer of 2017, the Cariboo region faced a devastating ordeal. Raging forest fires forced widespread evacuations, with many people losing everything. Farms couldn't evacuate quickly enough, gates were flung open, and everyone hoped for the best. Amid this chaos, something unexpectedly wonderful was about to happen, though we couldn't foresee it at the time.
Carol had friends who owned a small group of farm animals—a donkey, two goats, and three chickens. Ordered to evacuate from 100 Mile House, they turned to SAINTS for emergency refuge. Months passed before the family could return home, but during that time, a remarkable bond formed.
Rupert, their donkey, found a best friend in our donkey, Ziggy. It quickly became clear that Rupert and Ziggy were inseparable. Everyone agreed that Rupert should stay at SAINTS, where he had found his lifelong companion.
Since then, Rupert and Ziggy were the best of friends, always together, like shadows of each other. Unfortunately, Rupert began struggling with medical issues over the past few months. Despite our best efforts to maintain his quality of life, his condition recently took a turn for the worse. On 8th of July, our vet responded immediately. While we managed to stabilize him temporarily, we knew his time was short.
July 12th, we made the heartbreaking decision to let Rupert go. He passed peacefully and quickly, surrounded by love.
We are immensely grateful to Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic for their exceptional care of Rupert throughout his time with us.
Our hearts are heavy with sorrow. Rest in peace, dear Rupert. 💔
Rest in peace, beautiful Rupert. Thank you to everyone at SAINTS for the care and compassion you provided to this wonderful soul.