Nestled in a serene valley east of Oregon City, the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary paints a picture of rural tranquility — a big red barn surrounded by rolling green pastures, where a herd of gentle donkeys graze under the Oregon sky. But behind this idyllic setting lies a story of compassion, transformation, and connection — between animals and the people who find comfort in their quiet presence.
A Sanctuary Built on Kindness
The Oregon Donkey Sanctuary is run by husband-and-wife team Jim and Rhonda Urquhart, whose love for these misunderstood animals inspired them to create a permanent refuge.
“Donkeys are like big dogs,” said Jim Urquhart with a smile. “They don’t bite, they don’t kick, and they’re incredibly calm.”
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His wife, Rhonda, added, “They’re intelligent, curious, and surprisingly open to interacting with people.”
If that challenges the common notion of donkeys as “stubborn,” that’s exactly what the Urquharts hope to change. “Their so-called stubbornness comes from intelligence,” Rhonda explained. “They think things through, they protect themselves, and they teach us boundaries and respect. They’re true teachers.”
The Power of Donkey-Assisted Healing
While the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary isn’t a licensed therapy center, its impact on visitors mirrors that of animal-assisted therapy programs. The sanctuary welcomes guests for “donkey-assisted” activities — brushing, feeding, and simply standing with the animals — all of which create moments of peace and connection.
“They’re wonderful for calming people,” said Jim. “We’ve had visitors with PTSD, special needs, or advanced age, and even memory care residents from retirement homes. Donkeys don’t startle easily, which makes them perfect for people who are unsteady or anxious.”
Rhonda believes the donkeys’ quiet presence works on a deeper emotional level. “Sometimes people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling,” she said. “But when they stand among the donkeys, they find peace. There’s something magical about that silent connection — it heals in ways that words can’t.”
A Journey That Started With One Bray
The Urquharts didn’t originally plan to run an animal sanctuary. When they moved to Oregon from Arizona in 2006, they simply wanted a slower life on a small farm in the Willamette Valley. But one evening, Rhonda heard a donkey bray from a neighboring property. “I told Jim, ‘Wouldn’t it be fun to have a couple of donkeys?’” she recalled with a laugh.
That passing thought changed everything. Soon after, the couple began partnering with the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, the largest donkey and wild burro rescue in the U.S., helping rehabilitate and rehome donkeys in need.
As they took in more animals, they realized the Pacific Northwest had a growing need for permanent sanctuary spaces. “Donkeys live up to 40 years,” Rhonda explained. “Sometimes their owners pass away or can no longer care for them, so we started offering them lifelong homes.”
A Forever Home for the Forgotten
By 2021, their 40-acre property officially became the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary, a forever home for more than two dozen donkeys who had been abused, neglected, or abandoned. Some had heartbreaking pasts — like Jojo, once used for roping practice in Texas, and Dave, who suffered nerve damage from beatings but now receives acupuncture to help him eat and swallow again.
Others, like Fiona, wear socks to protect their legs from flies — a small but caring gesture that reflects the sanctuary’s dedication to each animal’s well-being.
Every donkey receives individualized care from veterinarians, farriers, and an army of volunteers — around 100 active helpers and nearly 200 more on a waiting list. Together, they nurture the animals back to health and happiness.
A Community of Healing — for Humans Too
Each year, the sanctuary welcomes 4,000 to 5,000 visitors by appointment and at public events. But the impact extends beyond those who come to meet the donkeys.
“We’ve built a real community here,” said Rhonda. “Our volunteers have become like family. Many say being here has changed their lives — they’re happier, more grounded, and even able to manage depression without medication.”
Volunteer coordinator Melissa Gray agreed wholeheartedly. “This is where I come to refill my cup,” she said. “It’s hard work, but it’s incredibly peaceful. There’s so much love here — between people, between people and animals — it’s just lovely.”
The Sanctuary’s Ripple Effect
The Oregon Donkey Sanctuary has become much more than a safe haven for animals; it’s a sanctuary for the human spirit. Visitors often describe the experience as both grounding and uplifting — a rare space where stillness feels healing.
“Standing among the donkeys, you can’t help but slow down,” said Rhonda. “You feel present, connected. And that feeling stays with people long after they leave.”
The Urquharts’ compassion has cultivated a movement — one that reminds people that healing can come from the simplest connections: a nuzzle from a rescued donkey, a shared moment of quiet, or the sight of an animal rediscovering trust.
Visit and Experience the Magic
For those curious to experience the sanctuary’s peaceful charm firsthand, the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary hosts seasonal events that welcome visitors to meet the animals and support their care. This weekend, October 11–12, they’re inviting the public to join their annual “Pick a Pumpkin, Pet a Donkey” celebration — a family-friendly way to enjoy fall festivities while connecting with the sanctuary’s gentle residents.
All visits are by appointment, and proceeds from events help cover the costs of food, medical care, and shelter for the donkeys.
A Place Where Love Has Hooves
From humble beginnings to a thriving refuge, the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary has become a testament to compassion — proof that love, patience, and understanding can rebuild even the most broken spirits.
As Jim and Rhonda continue their work, surrounded by braying, affectionate donkeys and the volunteers who adore them, one truth is clear: this isn’t just a sanctuary for animals. It’s a sanctuary for everyone who walks through its gates.
To learn more or schedule a visit, you can follow the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary’s events and updates online — and discover how a few humble donkeys are making Oregon a little kinder, one bray at a time.
