Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge shuts down temporarily

Photo: Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge

As the COVID-19 pandemic causes the temporary closure of more businesses and attractions, Kamloops' Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge is adding itself to the list.

While staff and veterinarians will continue to work to keep the animals well, the refuge is closing to the public, according to a press release.

"We are very sad to be postponing or cancelling our upcoming spring events, and we know that the donkeys will miss having the smiling faces of visitors to greet them as well," the refuge says. "Our hope is that we are able to open soon, as we miss all our donkey friends, members, and the joy of new visitors when they discover how wonderful donkeys are for the very first time."

The release also touches on the financial situation for the refuge, which runs as a charity relying on entrance fees from visitors.

"To make sure we can continue with our mission to provide a permanent home for the donkeys, we have come up with some great ways to keep the funds flowing. We are selling lily bulbs intended for the lily sale online through our refuge web-store, and shipping is free on our signature refuge clothing and other merchandise," states the release.

Additionally, the organization is staying in touch with donors and supporters.

If you need a pick-me-up, they still plan on uploading videos of the donkeys enjoying spring.

"On the farm every evening, you can hear the donkeys from one side of the property call out to the donkeys on the other," the refuge says. "It is a song of solidarity and comfort."