There’s something about spending time with animals that makes the day go a little better (OK, a lot better), and we just discovered a little-known animal sanctuary in Ontario where you can spend an afternoon meeting some seriously adorable donkeys. Best of all, visiting won’t cost you a thing (although donations are more than welcome).
PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary is tucked away in the countryside of Roseneath, near Rice Lake, about a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto, and the space is entirely dedicated to rescuing and caring for abandoned, abused and rehomed donkeys, mules and hinnies.
The sanctuary opens its gates for free fence-line visits every Thursday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. You can wander along the fence, meet and pet the donkeys and hear their stories from volunteers, who are also on hand to share some cool donkey facts (for instance, donkeys have impressive memories and are pretty social animals).
And there are quite a few personalities waiting to meet you, too! Ote is one of the sanctuary’s longest-standing residents and has called PrimRose home since 2000, while Maisie serves as the sanctuary’s ambassador and is known for getting up close with visitors and showing off her “singing voice.” Then there’s Jack Mini, affectionately nicknamed the sanctuary’s “dinner bell” because he makes sure everyone knows when feeding time rolls around.
If you want a more up-close experience (or perhaps a unique family day trip with the kids), you can book a one-hour private tour for $20 per person. Tours take place at 11 a.m. on Thursdays and Sundays for groups of up to 12 people, with other days potentially available by special request.
The sanctuary even offers Afternoon Tea with the donkeys during the warmer months! The experience begins with a private guided tour before guests sit down for tea surrounded by the sanctuary’s four-legged residents (available through Sept. 30).
Again, admission for fence-line visits is free, but donations are gratefully accepted and help support the animals in the sanctuary’s care. PrimRose is currently also raising funds to build a dedicated living space for Daisy and Sally, two bonded miniature donkeys who are blind and require a safe environment tailored to their needs, so this is definitely a spot to add to your Ontario day trip list.
PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary is located at 1296 Bowmanton Rd. in Roseneath, Ontario. Follow @primrose_donkey_sanctuary_ for more info. And after visiting PrimRose, check out this unique Ontario farm tour: it has ‘cafe-style’ bunny cuddling and is just minutes from Niagara Falls!