A donkey has captured the hearts of thousands of social media users after an animal shelter recorded one donkey's special affection for rubber balls.
A donkey named Eeyore had a difficult start, as he spent his life alone, without companions or toys to play with.
After his owner died, he was taken to Home for Hooves on Vancouver Island, Canada, where he was given a second chance at life with a new name, Earl, and now seems to find joy in the simplest things.
Michelle Singleton, founder and CEO of the shelter, said: “It was very clear that Earl was lonely and had been alone his entire life with no flock mates.
“As you probably know, donkeys are herd animals and socialization is vital to their mental well-being.”
She also added that he cried every time one of the shelter staff left his side. Since Earl had never been around other animals before, he was kept away from the others to avoid being scared. However, he has now made friends with the other donkeys at the shelter.
READ ALSO: Animal expert gives advice to all women with dogs – 'listen' [ADVICE]
@homeforhooves Rubber Ball – Bobby Vee
READ MORE:
UK safari with one unusual animal that lives within arm's reach of cars [ANIMALS]
Couple Adopts Large Dog From Shelter, But Vet Says It's Another Animal [REVEAL]
Anyone with a hedgehog in their garden is urged to take action before March [ADVICE]
One of Earl's most memorable moments wasn't the newfound attention, love, or friendships he found in his new home. Instead, he found a love for a rubber ball.
In a video posted to TikTok, Earl can be seen playing with a yoga ball in his pen, chasing it and putting it in his mouth, showing new energy in the process.
He has been seen with a ball in his mouth, spinning his head around, causing the ball to move with him, and then bouncing it up and down, playing with it.
Unfortunately, the ball soon deflated, leaving Earl very sad. Michelle shared in a TikTok video about his game: “Earl was devastated when his beloved ball deflated. Without it, he was the saddest donkey you've ever seen.
“Earl plays with his ball several times a day and spends countless hours chasing it.”
In trend
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email address
We use your registration to deliver content in ways you have consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include advertising from us and third parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Spectators were quick to show their generosity, and soon the shelter received a large supply of yoga balls for Earl to use so that he would always have a spare in case the current one deflated from vigorous play.
“Thanks to the generosity of many people, Earl now has a variety of entertainment options!” Michelle wrote.
In the comments to one video of Earl playing with his favorite toy, several people expressed their joy for the donkey.
“Earl brings so much happiness to people when he plays with his ball!” one commenter noted.
A second viewer said, “He's so cute! Why does he like those damn balls?? I wonder!” To which the shelter responded, “It could be for fun (like a dog playing with a ball) or for mental stimulation. Earl sure loves his ball.”
Sourse: www.express.co.uk
