Abandoned donkey 'Bella' to be rehomed

by Gráinne Connolly

An abandoned donkey which was rescued by Mid Ulster District Council in Castledawson has been re-homed after a court order was secured under the animal welfare legislation. 

Over the summer months, local people mounted a campaign on social media to help rescue the donkey they renamed 'Bella'. 

A spokesperson for the community group on facebook 'Castledawson Life' has posted: 

"GREAT NEWS ABOUT "OUR" DONKEY. 

"It has taken a while- the wheels of justice grind slowly - but at last, great news about the abandoned donkey that was left in atrocious conditions down the church lane, just off Main Street, Castledawson." 
 

Since the local people's campaign was started, Magherafelt Magistrates Court were told of the situation, while a solicitor for Mid Ulster District Council were able to identify the owner and praised the role played by members of the public in helping this animal.

According to Castledawson Life, the court heard that the alleged owner denied having the donkey and a form given was never completed or returned to the local Council. 

"District Judge, Oonagh Mullan, granted an order which will enable Bella to be re-homed at a Donkey Sanctuary. 

"So everyone who gave their time, concern and backing to help this defenseless animal - it has proven worthwhile. 

"A happy conclusion for Bella who can now live a life without pain or neglect, also be properly fed, cleaned and given shelter by people who really care!"