Peanut and Popcorn are looking forward to Christmas in their new home

Two young donkeys who were born at our Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre, in Aberdeenshire, are looking forward to their first Christmas in their new home together. The pair, named Peanut and Popcorn, were born at the centre last year after their mothers, Mia and Molly, were rescued whilst heavily pregnant. 

Donkeys bond very strongly so Peanut and Popcorn, who were born ten weeks apart, were looking for a home together once they were old enough. Rehoming a pair can often be tricky, as not everyone has space to take two animals at once – but luck was on Peanut and Popcorn’s side and they found the perfect home at the end of September. 

“When Peanut and Popcorn went up for rehoming, someone I know spotted them and sent me links to World Horse Welfare’s website,” explains rehomer Carol. “As soon as I read their profiles, I thought this would be the ideal home for them. I did take time to consider it carefully before applying though, as I already had two donkeys and needed to be sure it was right for them too. 

“After I applied, I was invited to the farm to meet Peanut and Popcorn and could tell it would be a great match with my two older donkeys, Duffy and Henrietta. Peanut and Popcorn have fitted right in and they’re such characters – they’re very funny. They’ve really livened Duffy and Henrietta up and it’s lovely to see them all zooming round the field together.”  

Now, Peanut and Popcorn are looking forward to their first Christmas in their new home. “All my animals have a home for life, so hopefully this is just the first of many happy Christmases with their new friends,” adds Carol. “I can’t imagine them not being here now.” 

Knowing how many unwanted, neglected animals – of all kinds – are in need of help inspired Carol to look into rehoming from a charity. She reflects, “I’ve always been keen on rehoming because I think it’s really important to give animals a second chance. I know that giving Peanut and Popcorn a home has made space for two more horses or donkeys in need to be rescued. It’s been a brilliant experience for me – the Belwade Farm team were all really friendly and helpful, as well as very efficient. I’d recommend rehoming to anyone.”

Having been born in safety, Peanut and Popcorn have only ever known compassionate, expert handling, unlike their mothers Molly and Mia, who came into our care in June 2024 after being abandoned. 

Anyone interested in offering a home to one of our horses, ponies, donkeys or mules can check out those ready to find new homes on our rehoming pages.