When we first heard about Kai, he was in the hands of a Mississippi trader, and several concerned supporters reached out to us. We knew we had to act fast.

Our incredible friend Fran from Crossroads Donkey Rescue jumped into action, firing up the Donkey Express to pick him up. On Tuesday, she set out on a mission to bring him to safety. But their journey wasn’t easy—on Wednesday, they battled through severe storms in Tennessee before making it to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. (The same incredible hospital that saved our sweet Savannah!)

A Mystery Unfolds

From the moment Fran met Kai, she knew he had been deeply loved at some point in his life. Unlike many donkeys who come through auctions wary of human touch, Kai leaned into her, soaking up every bit of affection.

How does a donkey like this end up in such a bad place? We’ll never know. But we do know this: he’s safe now.

Kai’s Medical Journey

At 15 years old, Kai arrived at the hospital needing immediate evaluation. His sunburn and photosensitivity raised concerns about liver function, but thankfully, his bloodwork showed normal liver levels.

However, he did have:
✔️ A high white blood cell count
✔️ A dry cough (though his lung ultrasound ruled out pneumonia)
✔️ Severe rain rot and sunburn

His treatment plan included:
✔️ Twice-daily medicated sprays
✔️ A thorough bath to soothe his skin
✔️ Antibiotics to prevent infection

Though he spiked a fever after his bath, medications quickly stabilized him. His fecal samples tested negative for lungworm and intestinal parasites—more good news!

Alopecia Diagnosis & Special Care Needs

Once Kai was cleared for travel, he made his way to Michigan, where he spent the winter in our heated barn to help his patchy hair regrow. But months later, he still had bald spots on his face, tail, and body.

Concerned, we reached out to an amazing TPDR adopter who is also a small animal dermatologist. After reviewing Kai’s photos, he suspected alopecia areata—an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss.

Biopsies confirmed the diagnosis.

Now, Kai will remain a sanctuary donkey at Turning Pointe Donkey Rescue, where we will ensure he has the special care he needs. His condition requires:

✔️ A fly sheet with 85% UV protection
✔️ 100 SPF waterproof sunscreen—even on cloudy days
✔️ A heated barn in winter to protect his delicate skin

Kai is Safe, But Many Donkeys Still Need Help

Kai’s journey reminds us that every donkey has a story—and some need lifelong sanctuary and care. We are honored to provide Kai with a safe, loving home where he will never be neglected again.

🐴 Will you help us continue to give donkeys like Kai the care they deserve?

💛 Donate today to support our sanctuary donkeys and give them the love and comfort they need!