The Rifugio degli Asinelli, a nonprofit foundation, was established in 2006, to improve the lives of donkeys and mules. It is the Italian arm of The Donkey Sanctuary, a UK based charity for donkey welfare established in 1969.
Rachele Totaro works for Rifugio, where 135 donkeys and mules live. Most of them were saved after mistreatments. According to Rachele, at Sala Biellese, Northern Italy, “we help their body and souls recover: the young, healthy ones can find a new home (always in pair, because donkeys have strong bonds and often a best friend for life!), while the “donkey grannies” or the ones with ailments have the warranty of a safe place where they can spend the rest of their lives.”
Rachele loves to go outside with her camera and take pictures of the animals, during her spare time. All her “donkey models” are survivors, having surpassed the tough times. Rachele said that donkeys are friendly, clever, a bit naughty at times, and each one of them is unique in their own way. Check out these beautiful animals living at II Rifugio.
