# Donkey sanctuaries and welfare initiatives

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/donkey-sanctuaries-and-welfare-initiatives
> Updated: 2026-10-19T06:00:21.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Efforts to protect donkey populations and preserve their cultural significance are being implemented through various sanctuary projects.

In Mijas, Spain, the Town Hall has received plans for ‘El Burrito’, a new recreational park and sanctuary in Mijas Pueblo. The project aims to provide a retirement home for up to 48 donkeys and a space for rehabilitation. The facility will include a dedicated animal refuge with grazing areas and veterinary shelters, alongside a cultural interpretation center designed to educate the public on the species' local importance.

In Otumba, Mexico, the Burrolandia sanctuary has been operating since 2006 to care for abandoned and mistreated animals. The initiative arose following a significant decline in the local donkey population. While the species remains central to the region's cultural identity, they face threats from mechanization and exploitation, often being discarded once they are no longer useful for labor.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: Burrolandia sanctuary protects abandoned donkeys in Mexico

The Burrolandia sanctuary in Otumba, Mexico, provides refuge for approximately 100 rescued donkeys following a massive population decline and widespread animal neglect.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/burrolandia-sanctuary-protects-abandoned-donkeys-in-mexico

### 2026-10-14: Mijas to build ‘El Burrito’ donkey sanctuary and visitor center

Mijas Town Hall has approved plans for ‘El Burrito’, a sanctuary in Mijas Pueblo designed to house up to 48 donkeys and provide an educational visitor center.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mijas-to-build-el-burrito-donkey-sanctuary-and-visitor-center

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Cite as: Donkey sanctuaries and welfare initiatives. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/donkey-sanctuaries-and-welfare-initiatives