PICS | Western Cape storms leave Karoo Donkey Sanctuary in emergency recovery mode

As parts of the Western Cape continue to grapple with adverse weather conditions, the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary said severe floods are threatening its facility. 

The Karoo Donkey Sanctuary had just come out of a crippling drought and faces a flood emergency after severe storms made landfall in the De Rust region. 

Founder and CEO of the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary, Jonno Sherwin, said the area received 62 mm of rain within 24 hours. This is nearly 25% of the sanctuary’s average rainfall, causing extensive damage across the property and placing rescue operations under severe strain. 

“Despite the dangerous conditions, all animals at the sanctuary remain safe. However, the situation remains critical as the river running through the property continues to rise,” Sherwin said. 

Floodwaters have uprooted trees, damaged fencing, and torn through grazing fields, while emergency crews work around the clock to protect shelters and secure vulnerable areas. Teams are currently digging trenches, reinforcing structures, and carrying out urgent repairs as heavy rain continues. 

“We are incredibly grateful that all our animals are safe, but the damage is severe and the danger is not over. Our emergency teams are doing everything possible to protect the donkeys and maintain operations during the storm, but we urgently need public support,” Sherwin said. 

The sanctuary is appealing for emergency donations to assist in: 

• Protecting and reinforcing shelters
• Repairing flood damage and fencing
• Providing emergency feed and veterinary care
• Keeping rescue and emergency response teams operational throughout the storm
• Every contribution will go directly toward emergency response efforts, animal safety, repairs, feed, and essential supplies during the crisis.

The appeal comes on World Donkey Day, May 8, and highlights the sanctuary’s ongoing commitment to vulnerable animals such as Bahati, a donkey rescued in Limpopo in January 2025 after surviving a near-fatal wildlife encounter.

“Today, on World Donkey Day, we are asking people to stand with the animals who depend on this sanctuary. Donkeys like Bahati need continued care, protection, and hope,” Sherwin said. 

Visit the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary Facebook page for more information. 

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