Posted: 5th May 2025 | Back to news feed
The Donkey Sanctuary welcomed officers from the Devon & Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Team to its Sidmouth headquarters this week as part of a national drive to highlight equine crime and welfare issues.
Between 28 April and 4 May, Devon & Cornwall Police are supporting Operation Gallop – a national initiative tackling equine-related crime and promoting animal welfare.
As part of their involvement, the Rural Affairs Team is engaging with local equine communities to offer crime prevention advice. Visiting facilities like The Donkey Sanctuary also helps officers to deepen their understanding of equine welfare as well as the unique needs of donkeys how these might differ from other equines such as horses.
PC Lucy Wyatt, Rural Affairs Officer, said: “We visited the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth earlier this year to give them crime prevention advice and they kindly offered to carry out a training session for our officers in return.
“As a Rural Affairs Team, we need to be aware of many different issues affecting local communities and as Devon and Cornwall are largely rural areas, we know that many people enjoy horse riding or keep donkeys.
“The force also has a responsibility to protect animals from neglect or cruelty and the training offered by The Donkey Sanctuary has been invaluable in educating the team about how to spot potential welfare issues.
“Many people don’t realise that donkeys behave very differently to horses, for example. They are more stoic, prone to hoof problems and obesity, and respond differently to stress and handling. Training helps to ensure that officers don’t make incorrect assumptions based on horse or other equine behaviour.
“We are always looking to improve our knowledge and are grateful for the time staff at the charity have spent with us.”
Staff at The Donkey Sanctuary were happy to offer a tailored training session to officers following their visit earlier in the year to provide crime prevention advice and forensic property marking for farm equipment. The training focused on the unique behaviour and welfare needs of donkeys as well as the practicalities of equine identification and passport legislation.
Hannah Bryer, Head of Welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary said: “Here at The Donkey Sanctuary, we have a team of dedicated Donkey Welfare Advisers who can provide free, expert advice and support to those who own and work with donkeys and mules across Great Britain.
“Welcoming the Devon & Cornwall Rural Policing Team to our headquarters this week provided a valuable opportunity for officers to learn about the needs and behaviour of donkeys and mules. This knowledge will help them in the field and give them a greater understanding of the support available through our welfare team.
“Partnerships like this play a crucial role in helping us reach more donkeys and their owners. By working together, we can strengthen our impact within communities and continue our mission to improve the lives of donkeys every day.”
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