Cinnamon the donkey has captured the hearts of animal welfare advocates, prompting fundraising efforts to improve the living conditions of donkeys in Cyprus.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- Cinnamon the donkey has captured the hearts of animal welfare advocates, prompting fundraising efforts to improve the living conditions of donkeys in Cyprus.
- “They endure backbreaking workloads, lack appropriate care, and spend years exposed to the elements,” Jo explained. “Often, donkeys suffer injuries and die abandoned, alone and in pain.”
- “Most donkey farms are severely overpopulated, with the animals cramped in small muddy enclosures,” Jo stated. “Even with the best intentions, the conditions are far from ideal.”
- Cinnamon is not just a donkey; he represents the countless animals in need of rescue and care. By supporting Jo, individuals can play a part in transforming the lives of these gentle creatures.
A Lifelong Commitment to Animal Welfare
Jo Welsby, a dedicated animal welfare advocate, has visited Cyprus 32 times over the last two decades. Her passion for improving the lives of animals on the island has led her to take significant steps to help donkeys in need.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Meeting Cinnamon: A Special Connection
During a visit to a donkey shelter in 2024, Jo met Cinnamon, a gentle brown donkey with a unique colouration. This meeting sparked Jo’s desire to rescue Cinnamon and another donkey, bringing them to the UK for a better life.
“What instantly drew me to Cinnamon was his gentle nature,” Jo shared in an interview with the Cyprus Mail. “I just couldn’t get him out of my head. I knew I wanted to do my bit for him, although at that stage, I never dreamed it would involve something as huge as flying him halfway across the world!”
Fundraising for a Better Future
Back in the UK, Jo has been volunteering with the Worcester Donkey Rescue for the past two years. The organisation has agreed to provide a permanent home for Cinnamon and another donkey, but Jo now faces the challenge of raising £11,000 (over €12,700) to cover their transport costs.
To date, she has raised nearly half of the required amount, thanks to contributions from more than 200 supporters. Jo acknowledges that rescuing just two donkeys may seem like a small impact, but she believes that every effort counts. “If I can play a part in the rescue of two gentle, innocent animals, I owe it to them to try,” she said.
The Current State of Donkeys in Cyprus
Under Cyprus law, donkeys are a protected species, yet many still face exploitation and neglect. Despite regulations in place, the enforcement of animal welfare laws remains inconsistent. Jo highlighted the lack of effective punishment for animal cruelty and the need for improvements in neutering and education on the island.
“They endure backbreaking workloads, lack appropriate care, and spend years exposed to the elements,” Jo explained. “Often, donkeys suffer injuries and die abandoned, alone and in pain.”
Conditions at Shelters
Cinnamon currently resides in the island’s largest animal shelter, which houses over 1,500 animals. This facility, like many others on the island, struggles with underfunding, impacting the quality of care provided. Jo emphasised the need for more resources to ensure that these animals receive the attention and care they deserve.
“Most donkey farms are severely overpopulated, with the animals cramped in small muddy enclosures,” Jo stated. “Even with the best intentions, the conditions are far from ideal.”
A Vision for Cinnamon’s Future
Jo’s goal is to see Cinnamon and the other donkey live in a peaceful and healthy environment. The rescue farm in the UK will provide them with one-to-one attention, a warm shelter, veterinary care, and a loving team of volunteers.
Those who wish to support Jo’s mission can contribute to her GoFundMe campaign titled ‘Help bring Cyprus donkeys, Cinnamon and friend, to UK rescue.’ Jo hopes to raise the remaining funds needed to ensure a better future for Cinnamon and his companion.
The Bigger Picture of Animal Welfare in Cyprus
While Jo’s efforts focus on rescuing two donkeys, the situation for many animals in Cyprus remains critical. Ongoing advocacy for consistent animal law enforcement, better care standards, and public education about animal welfare is essential.
Jo believes that raising awareness about the plight of donkeys in Cyprus is equally important as rescuing them. Her fundraising campaign not only aims to help Cinnamon but also to shed light on the broader issues facing animal welfare on the island.
“I want people to understand the challenges these animals face and to encourage them to get involved,” she said. “Every little bit helps, whether it’s through donations or simply spreading the word.”
Join the Cause
As Jo continues her fundraising journey, she invites others to join her in making a difference. The plight of donkeys in Cyprus may seem far removed, but with collective efforts, significant change is possible.
Cinnamon is not just a donkey; he represents the countless animals in need of rescue and care. By supporting Jo, individuals can play a part in transforming the lives of these gentle creatures.
