From California to Devon: Donkey King Star Praises ‘Gold Standard’ Care
By Animals Correspondent
The star of hit TV series Donkey King says The Donkey Sanctuary was the place to visit to help him learn the ‘gold standard in donkey care’.
Former media executive Ron King co-founded Oscar’s Place Adoption Center and Sanctuary in 2021, and now viewers can follow their exploits in the new ABC show - Donkey King.
Ron first visited The Donkey Sanctuary in East Devon with some of his core team in 2023, where during a three-day, packed itinerary they were given a tour of the Sidmouth site, had hands-on sessions with donkey behaviour and welfare experts, and spent a full day with specialist vets and farriers at charity’s dedicated donkey hospital near Honiton.
Last year Ron revisited The Donkey Sanctuary with a team of his vets to further their learning and discover more about the work of the sanctuary.
Commenting at the time, Ron said:
“Our desire is to be the best we can be for the donkeys in our care, and the place to find donkey experts is at The Donkey Sanctuary.
“So we are here to learn from the gold standard in donkey care, (and) how we can be better at what we do.”
The new 17-part docuseries, Donkey King, is already proving a hit with viewers who tune in to watch Ron and his team at the sanctuary in Northern California, where they rescue and rehabilitate donkeys to help them lead happier, safer lives.
On speaking ahead of the show’s launch, which premiered on 3 January, Ron said:
"I can't wait to introduce viewers to their new favourite animal. Donkeys are emotional, intelligent, curious, and hilarious! Donkey King is sure to bring joy into people's hearts and homes."
Ron and his team clearly have a close connection to The Donkey Sanctuary, and by visiting the sanctuary have been able to further their knowledge and training on their donkey journey.
Whilst Donkey King is already proving a great advocate for donkeys, offering viewers an educational, informational and entertaining feel-good show about these emotional and smart animals.
Donkey King can be watched for free here: www.donkeyking.com
