Meet 2 donkeys who have a lot to say

Noah and Jack have a lot to say — especially if breakfast is running late. Or dinner. Or if someone is just walking by and not giving out kisses. These two donkey besties came to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary with big personalities and even bigger voices. Today, they live on 20 acres with adopter Jodie Lecoque, where they’ve brought more than a few laughs (and a whole lot of volume) to their new herd.

“I already had two donkeys — Benny and Sasha,” says Jodie. “But when I saw Noah and Jack online, I just thought, ‘They need a home. And we’ve got the space.’” After meeting them in person, she was all in.

[Learn more about adoptable equines at Best Friends]

“Noah and Jack are so talkative, and they’ve kind of rubbed off on the other two,” says Jodie. “Before, Benny was practically silent. Now, he starts hollering right along with them — especially at feeding time.”

They’ve also picked up a few shared routines. “They always end up hanging out under the same tree,” Jodie says. “It’s so cute.”

Jack, once shy and wary of other equines, has blossomed with Noah’s help. They’re both a bit skittish around quick movements, but they’ve come a long way and are affectionate, goofy, and very vocal additions to their new home.

They make high-pitched squeals that, according to Jodie, “don’t even sound like donkey noises.” Plus, they love kisses, and they’re not shy about asking for them. “They’ll come right up and put their mouths on my cheek,” she says. “They’re really sweet.”

[New friends help shy donkey duo expand horizons]

They’ve also developed a reputation for having big appetites. “They love their food, they love their vitamins, and they love yelling about both,” laughs Jodie.

With acres to explore, daily attention from Jodie and her family, and a whole lot of donkey banter, Noah and Jack are clearly living their best donkey lives. And if anyone forgets what time breakfast is? Don’t worry — these two are more than happy to remind them. Loudly.

Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets. 

Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.