Mail Address : PO Box 248 Dansville,MI 48819
501(c)(3) # 20-1751548
Mail Address : PO Box 248 Dansville,MI 48819
Donkeys come to the rescue from a variety of difficult situations. We rescue them from the slaughter pipeline: auctions, kill buyers, and traders. Sadly, donkeys are taken across the border and slaughtered for meat and for their hides. We also try to intercept donkeys before they get into the slaughter pipeline through ads for free or low-cost donkeys that traders and kill buyers often prey on unsuspecting owners by deceiving them into believing that they will give them a loving home. In addition, we have taken in donkeys and mules from abuse and neglect situations as well as from animal control seizures or intakes at their request.
We also have a “Safety Net Program” whereby we take in owner surrenders with no questions asked to keep their donkeys out of auctions or out of reach of traders and kill buyers. We do not judge the owners even if the donkeys come to us in poor condition. We keep their information private. It has become increasingly hard for people to reach out for help for fear of being ridiculed which sadly happens all to often when the owner is trying to do the right thing for the donkeys. This treatment only prolongs the animals suffering. Life circumstances can change quickly, and people need to feel safe asking for help. Our safety net program provides a safe landing for donkeys of owners who truly love them but can no longer take care of them for a variety of reasons: old age, death of owner, physical and mental health conditions, financial crisis, divorce, relocation for job or family emergency, and many more. There are many different reasons that owners find themselves searching for a new home for their long-eared friends, and our goal is to make that search easier on everyone and provide comfort that we will protect their beloved long-ears for the rest of their lives.
We stand as unwavering advocates for donkey welfare, committed to rescuing, protecting, and transforming the lives of these gentle animals
Turning Pointe Donkey Rescue, Inc. (TPDR) has been operating as a Michigan based non-profit organization since October 2004. TPDR’s mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome donkeys and mules as well as educate the public on proper care, handling, and training. TPDR does not discriminate, so we have rescued some short ear equine over the years as well. Although our goal is to rehome the equine that we rescue with amazing families, we do have some equine that we provide permanent sanctuary to due to chronic health issues. To date we have rescued from several states: MI, OH, PA, IN, KY, NC, TN, VA, AR, NJ, NY, MD, TX, MO, KS, OK, MS, LA, CO, IL. We love to collaborate with our network of equine rescues and rescuers to help extend our reach and rescue more donkeys and equine through teamwork.
Our mission is to create a world where every donkey is valued, cared for, and treated with respect. Through rescue efforts, sanctuary care, and community outreach, we strive to protect and improve the lives of donkeys
Turning Point Donkey Rescue (TPDR) was founded with a heartfelt mission: to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome donkeys and mules, ensuring they live and die with dignity. This mission began with our founder Sharon Windsor’s personal journey of rescuing Shaggy, a donkey saved from a kill pen on Good Friday in 2002.
Shaggy was found at a large Indiana horse auction, trapped in the kill pen. He was dirty, crippled, and timidly trying to avoid the aggressive draft horses destined for slaughter. For just $31, Sharon bought him that miserable day to give him a humane and peaceful death. Shaggy, a gentle soul who had once been loved and well-trained, spent his final months on Sharon’s farm. On a Friday, exactly four months later, Shaggy quietly passed away with his head resting on Sharon’s lap. His story profoundly changed Sharon’s life and inspired her to dedicate her farm and her heart to rescuing donkeys in need.
Since its inception in 2004, TPDR has rescued over 850 donkeys and engaged more than 120 volunteers. We strive to provide these gentle creatures with the medical care, rehabilitation, and safe homes they deserve. Additionally, we educate the public on proper donkey care, handling, and the unique needs of donkeys and mules.
Our efforts extend beyond rescue operations. We work with local veterinary universities to train students, provide educational tours, and assist donkey and mule owners with guidance on care and welfare. We also offer crisis intervention programs, such as hay and emergency veterinary care funds, to support owners in need.
At TPDR, every donkey has a story, and every rescue is a step toward creating a world where donkeys are valued, cared for, and treated with respect. Whether it’s Shaggy’s rescue or the countless others who have found sanctuary, our mission remains the same: to protect, uplift, and advocate for these incredible animals
We’re proud to be recognized by:
Every donkey deserves a life filled with love, care, and dignity. With your support, we can rescue more donkeys, provide them with medical care and shelter, and advocate for their rights globally.
© 2025 Turning Pointe Donkey Rescue – All Rights Reserved.
Turning Point Donkey Rescue is a 501 (c)(3) – 201751548
