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California Sanctuary Rescues Hundreds of Donkeys from Neglect and Slaughter

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 18:23 GMT by ABC7

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The Reign of Kindness: How One California Sanctuary Became Home to Hundreds of Donkeys

Nestled in the rolling hills of Mendocino County, California, lies an unlikely kingdom – the Donkey King Sanctuary. What began as a personal rescue effort by former construction worker David Herbst has blossomed into a haven for hundreds of donkeys, many abandoned, neglected, or facing imminent slaughter. A recent feature on ABC7’s Localish series shines a light on this remarkable sanctuary and the dedicated individual at its heart, revealing a story of compassion, resilience, and the surprisingly complex lives of these often-overlooked animals.

The Donkey King Sanctuary's origin is rooted in a single act of kindness. Herbst initially rescued just one donkey, a neglected animal he named "King." This initial rescue sparked a chain reaction. Word spread about his willingness to take in donkeys others couldn’t or wouldn’t care for, and soon, the trickle became a flood. Today, the sanctuary is home to over 300 donkeys of all ages, sizes, and personalities – a veritable donkey metropolis.

The Localish report highlights the sheer scale of the operation. Maintaining such a large population requires immense resources. Herbst, now fully dedicated to the sanctuary, relies heavily on volunteers and donations to provide food, shelter, veterinary care, and enrichment for his charges. The cost is significant; feeding 300 donkeys daily consumes an enormous amount of hay – roughly five tons! The sanctuary’s website (linked in the ABC7 article) details their ongoing needs and provides avenues for financial support and volunteer opportunities.

But the story isn't just about logistics. It's about the individual stories of the donkeys themselves. The report introduces several residents, each with a unique history and personality. There's "Princess," a miniature donkey who enjoys being brushed; “Milo,” a gentle giant rescued from a livestock auction; and many others whose past lives were marked by hardship or uncertainty. Herbst emphasizes that each donkey has its own quirks and preferences, requiring individualized care and attention. He describes them as having distinct personalities – some are shy, some are playful, and some simply enjoy being the center of attention.

The sanctuary’s existence addresses a critical issue: the often-overlooked plight of donkeys in America. While horses frequently receive significant attention and resources, donkeys are often considered less valuable, leading to neglect and abandonment. Many end up at livestock auctions where they face potential slaughter for their meat, primarily exported overseas. The Donkey King Sanctuary provides an alternative – a safe haven where these animals can live out their lives in peace and dignity.

The Localish segment also delves into the challenges faced by Herbst and his team. Space is constantly at a premium, requiring ongoing efforts to expand facilities and manage the growing population. Veterinary care for such a large group of animals is expensive and demanding. Furthermore, the emotional toll of witnessing the suffering these donkeys have endured can be significant. Despite these hurdles, Herbst remains steadfast in his commitment.

The report emphasizes that the Donkey King Sanctuary isn’t just about rescuing donkeys; it's also about educating the public about their intelligence, sensitivity, and importance. Donkeys are social animals who thrive on companionship and interaction. They possess remarkable problem-solving abilities and can form strong bonds with humans. Herbst hopes to dispel common misconceptions about donkeys and foster a greater appreciation for these often-misunderstood creatures.

The sanctuary’s impact extends beyond the immediate care of the donkeys. It serves as a testament to the power of one person's dedication and compassion. The Localish report portrays Herbst not just as a caretaker, but as an advocate for animal welfare and a symbol of hope for neglected animals everywhere. His story inspires viewers to consider their own roles in supporting animal rescue efforts and promoting responsible pet ownership.

The ABC7 article concludes with a call to action, encouraging viewers to learn more about the Donkey King Sanctuary and contribute to its mission. Whether through donations, volunteering time, or simply spreading awareness, individuals can play a part in ensuring the sanctuary’s continued success and providing a brighter future for these remarkable animals. The reign of kindness at the Donkey King Sanctuary is ongoing, and it's a kingdom that desperately needs – and richly deserves – our support.

To learn more and contribute:

• [ Donkey King Sanctuary Website ]
• [ ABC7 News Article Link ]