TWO donkeys from the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary have returned home to Wroxall after a trip to hospital, with the Sanctuary team receiving news they were hoping not to hear.

Donkeys Bella and Geraldine returned home from Liphook Equine Hospital, reuniting all of the Donkey Sanctuary’s ‘miniature mischiefs’ herd.

Bella has been quite poorly and has been through many tests to find out the cause of her high heart rate and discomfort.

Geraldine had travelled to the hospital with Bella on December 13, to keep her company while also enjoying the silver service the Sanctuary’s donkeys experience during their Liphook stays.

Isle of Wight County Press: Bella the miniature donkeyBella the miniature donkey (Image: Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary)

Following a CT scan, Bella was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a disease affecting the lungs and the heart – a condition that can be managed but is not reversible.

An Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary spokesperson said: “This is not the news that we were hoping for, however, we can manage this condition with a combination of anti-fibrotic drugs and steroids.

“The team at Liphook have asked that Bella only does the gentlest of exercise in future, and she shouldn't be ‘racing around’! 

“If anyone has ever actually witnessed Bella racing around, please do let us know, but we don't think this should be a problem for her!”

“Our thanks and best wishes go out once again to the fabulous team of staff at Liphook, whose care, love and expertise for our donkeys is just wonderful. Thank you for all that you do for our donkeys.

“We are all very excited to welcome Bella and Geraldine back home.”