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I don’t normally fundraise for these little donkeys.
Quite frankly, they are expensive, and they are not in the same category of danger as horses shipping across the border. What they are in danger of is the pipeline. That is the part people do not understand.
People love to criticize rescues for “spending too much” on one save. This is exactly what happens when everyone stands around doing nothing because of what society thinks is worth it and what it isn’t.
This little donkey is a victim of that.
When I got here, I saw him and immediately thought he was really cute. I am not immune to a cute little donkey. In my head though, I told myself I could not fundraise for him just because he was cute, especially when he would probably get picked up by someone.
The problem is his price is $1,600.
That takes the right person.
While everyone waits for that right person, I have sat here and watched him get sicker and sicker and sicker.
Now here we are on day four, and he is incredibly sick.
He has already been through an auction. Now he has been sitting here exposed. This facility has been trying to help him. They gave him antibiotics. It is not enough. When they get pneumonia, they need a vet hospital. They need real intervention. That is not cheap.
His vet care is going to be a minimum of $5,000.
Add in his $1,600 purchase price.
Add in $150 to get him transported to the hospital.
What normal person is realistically going to take that on?
That is the mental battle I live with.
That is the battle so many rescues live with.
Do you keep waiting and hope somebody steps up?
Do you risk him getting worse?
Do you let him crash while everyone debates whether he is “worth it”? I can’t do that.
Finished in the comments below ⬇️ #lost many to animals #rescue #animalsupport #donate #help
Rescuing animals like Little Pete, who face both health challenges and financial barriers, often involves complex decisions. From personal experience volunteering with animal rescues, I’ve seen firsthand how treatment for illnesses such as pneumonia can quickly become expensive and emotionally draining. What many people don’t realize is that these animals not only face immediate health threats but also the threat of being overlooked due to their cost and lack of “popularity” compared to other rescue animals. Donkeys, unlike horses, often don’t receive the same public support, which makes fundraising more difficult. The pipeline threat mentioned refers to animals caught in cycles of auctions and shipments where their fate is uncertain and often grim without intervention. When Little Pete was first noticed, he was still relatively well, but waiting for the “right adopter” isn’t always an option—especially when his illness worsens by the day. Vaccines, antibiotics, and basic medical care are just the start. Pneumonia in equines requires specialized veterinary care that can only be provided in a hospital setting, increasing costs drastically. The $5,000 vet bill estimated here is based on the need for hospitalization, IV fluids, medications, and monitoring – all essential to save his life. I’ve also found that community support through donations, awareness, and spreading the word can help smaller rescues afford such emergencies. Every effort counts; it’s not just about the money but about giving animals like Little Pete a chance to recover and find a safe forever home. If you’re moved by stories like this, consider supporting rescues or volunteering your time. Animals in dire straits rely on our compassion and action, and even small contributions can tip the scales toward survival. Remember, animals like Little Pete need us not just when they’re healthy and cute, but especially when they’re sick and vulnerable. This is why many rescuers make heartbreaking yet necessary hard calls, using every resource to give these creatures a second chance at life.