Our beautiful girl Pat spent the majority of her life as a working donkey in one of the harshest environments we could imagine – within the high-altitude villages surrounding Kabul, Afghanistan. Here, donkeys are the lifeblood of the community, often providing the only means of transporting water and goods.
Pat was forced to perform this gruelling work while battling rickets - a condition caused by severe nutritional deficiencies. This led to a softening of her bones, causing her legs to bow under the weight of her tasks. Despite the disadvantage and constant discomfort, she never had a break.
Pat’s rescue by Nowzad in 2021 was a turning point not just for Pat, but for her foal, Charlie who was constantly by her side as she worked.
When Pat arrived at our sanctuary, Pat absolutely blossomed. She quickly earned the title of our "friendly and calm lady", and became the sanctuary's professional "gate-greeter." She and Charlie also remained stuck together like glue. Seeing them graze side-by-side, free from the weight of water casks, was a daily reminder of why we do what we do.
We’re so sad to say though that, over the weekend, our dear Pat passed away from old age. Ultimately, it was the combination of a long life lived and the advancing toll of arthritis —a legacy of her struggle with rickets.
The sanctuary feels a little quieter this week without the sound of Pat greeting our staff each morning at the gate. But we take comfort in knowing that her final years were free of heavy loads, full of scratches behind the ears, and defined by the peace she shared with Charlie.
Rest well Pat. You have carried enough for a lifetime.
To support the ongoing work of giving animals like Pat the retirement they deserve, please consider donating here: https://www.nowzad.com/support-us
And to read more about the other, much-loved residents at our Donkey Sanctuary click here: https://www.nowzad.com/our-work/nowzad-donkey-sanctuary
In memory of our beautiful Pat, help us look after the foal she loved so much. Sponsor Charlie to provide him with the care and comfort he deserves:
https://www.nowzad.com/store/product/sponsor-charlie