GEREON
Donkey gelding
Age: c.
Arrival: 2011
Current status: Sanctuary
RECENT SPONSORS:
ASSIGNED VOLUNTEERS: d'Alary D.
History: Like Toby and Sheila, Joaquin was one of the herd of 24 that we rescued from Southwest Livestock Auction in fall of 2011. That means that Joaquin's original intake dates back to about a year before we were even incorporated as a NM charity. No one knows where he came from or how he landed there, but many in that herd were in poor shape, both physically and behaviorally. Joaquin was one of those who displayed extreme fear of humans, especially when he was tethered for him to get trimmed or get veterinary procedures done. But at least, he was not gelded without anesthesia; he was fortunate enough to be gelded under our care. Over time, Joaquin has made progress with gentling, and he was even adopted out for a few years to a small ranch in Deming together with Sheila and some others, but he returned when their adopter unexpectedly passed away. Joaquin can be trimmed - but only with the help of treats! - and groomed and seems to be happiest here at our facility.
Personality: Joaquin is social with other donkeys as well as mules and horses and has had a number of close bonds with other donkeys, both male and female. He is currently in a bonded senior herd of four called the "mash eaters" or "the four J's" together with Jack, Jow, and Jessie, and he loves to spend time playing with Jessie, the only jennet in the group. Joaquin has a benevolent small cancer spot inside his left lower eye lid that needs protection from the sun (usually by wearing a fly mask) and is treated and managed with antibiotic ointments.
Diet: Joaquin and his senior herd of four get some bermuda hay, some leafy alfalfa, and mash twice a day consisting of soaked hay pellets and senior feed. Sponsor Joaquin here!