Carlos and Donkey at the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge (Image Credit: Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge)
Donkey Refuge

Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge to soon welcome visitors

Apr 18, 2026 | 11:17 AM

TURTLE VALLEY, BC — The Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge is welcoming a donkey named Donkey and his mule best friend Carlos this month as they get ready to open the rescue to visitors for the year.

The two new senior equines were brought to the refuge after being rescued by a senior caretaker who has aged out of their farm.

Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge Co-Founder and Board President Rob Miller said similar situations are increasingly common.

“This is what we are seeing now – Donkey caretakers are aging and have health concerns that no longer allow them to care for their beloved animals. And of course the donkeys & mules themselves are also seniors, with high care needs,” said Miller.

“They require experienced caretakers and in many cases specialized medication or treatments to ensure they are happy and healthy for the rest of their lives. That is where the Refuge can help.”

Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge, a registered charity with about 100 donkeys on their main farm and other equines at nearby foster farms, was founded in 2013 by Miller and his late wife, Shirley Mainprize.

Each summer starting on May 1, the Refuge opens to visitors to provide a hands-on opportunity to meet and learn about donkeys and their care.

The facility will be open to visitors every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. until September 7.

They also host a series of events, such as a Summer Solstice event on June 21, Market Day on July 11, and the annual Hay Day on August 16.

“The summer events are a favourite of many visitors, and they really enjoy bringing their family and friends out for a wonderful day in the country,” said Miller.

The Refuge’s Hay Day event will be admission by donation, while regular daily admission to the Refuge is $15 for adults, $12 for youth and seniors, and free for those aged 4 and under. Annual memberships are available for $30, allowing unlimited visits during opening hours.

“Supporting and giving back to their community is also a top priority of the Donkey Refuge, and they offer special admission rates for charity, not for profit & other eligible community groups on their open visitor days,” said the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge.

“Miller encourages eligible groups to reach out for more information.”