Donkey Breaks Out In Huge Grin After Being Rescued From Flood

Even though Hurricane Harvey downgraded from a Category 4 hurricane a tropical storm in recent days, the massive weather system continues to unleash torrential rains along the coastline of Texas and into Louisiana. As a result, people and animals are still recovering from the violent storm and massive flooding.

Fortunately, compassionate samaritans have devoted themselves to helping others during this trying ordeal — and that includes household pets and farm animals.

Though this particular case was in Ireland and took place in 2015, this flood rescue was a lucky donkey who would likely have died, had volunteers not made an effort to rescue it. 

The Dodo reported that the donkey was spotted by his owner who then contacted Ireland’s Animal Heaven Animal Rescue (AHAR). They then posted a plea to Facebook for help, writing: “Code red. Today’s emergency. Please help me. There is a donkey stranded in deep flooding in Kilorglin. I need a boat and men to help.”

Thankfully, many people came to the poor animal’s rescue — specifically, Mike Fleming of the Killorglin rowing club and his boat. Using a rope and a flotation device around the donkey’s neck, the volunteers dragged him to safety on the other side of the flooding waters.

“Picture this,” ARAH posted to Facebook. “He was my last chance and phone call to beg for a boat. He listened and he drove down to meet me. I knew straight away he had the guts to do it. No negative attitude just come on girl we’ll give it a go. He braved such dangerous water to help us save him.”

The donkey’s relief was impossible to miss, as a huge grin broke out across his face. This inspired the helpers to laugh.

Credit: AHAR

Despite donkeys’ reputation of being stubborn, this one seemed pretty easy-going. He was named Mike, after his rescuer.

Mike was transported to a shelter where he received oats and warmed up under heat lamps. Once the flooding recedes, the donkey will return to his home.

Click here to donate to AHAR.

h/t The Dodo