‘Mr Kipling’ makes exceedingly good mates as he retires from his 10 year career as a therapy donkey

Beloved therapy donkey Mr Kipling retires after a decade of bringing joy

A beloved donkey made his final visit to to a Guildford care home before retirement after a decade spent warming the hearts of residents.

‘Mr Kipling, a miniature Mediterranean donkey, has been visiting Queen Elizabeth Park Care Home, on Hallowes Close, since he was a seven month old foal but is now hanging up his halter.

Known for his cheeky yet gentle nature, Mr Kipling made his farewell visit, touring the  77-bed home, which offers personalised residential, nursing, respite, dementia and end-of-life care.  He indulged in ear scratches and stealing cake crumbs, even getting in the lift to visit residents at their bedsides.

Resident Kay will be one of many who will miss him.

“It has been so lovely to see him here, especially as I wouldn’t be able to get to see him otherwise,” she said.  “He was so docile and so lovely. He was there for everyone and really seemed like he was enjoying himself too. He always seemed at home with us.”

May added:  “Well, it was just such a treat to see him!” she said.  “It was a great pleasure to be so close to him and touch him or give him a brush.”

As Mr Kipling enters his well-earned retirement, the QEP Care Home community celebrates his incredible legacy of spreading comfort and happiness. His visits will be cherished as a symbol of the unique bond between animals and people.

“When we first arranged a visit from Mr Kipling, it was such an unexpected delight for our residents to see a donkey in the home,” said lifestyle coordinator Jackie Avenell.

“Over the years, we’ve also welcomed penguins, monkeys, lambs, and alpacas – but Mr Kipling was truly one of a kind and his visits brought so much joy.

“He has been an integral part of creating unforgettable memories for our residents. His calm and friendly demeanour never failed to light up the room. We are grateful for the decade of joy he has shared with us.”

Over his ten-year career, he brought joy not only to care homes and hospitals but also to schools, where he supported a reading programme inspired by his very own storybook, The Donkey and His Drummer.