Arya has been confirmed as the newest addition to Redwings Horse Sanctuary Adoption Club.

Poitou donkey is named after Game of Thrones character

An orphaned donkey foal has been confirmed as the newest addition to the Redwings Horse Sanctuary Adoption Club.

Arya, a part-bred Poitou donkey, arrived at Redwings in August 2014 when she was just one month old.

Named after Arya Stark from George R. R Martin's fantasy novels Game of Thrones, the foal arrived with her mum Millie, and their companions, mum Adel and her son Merlin.

Sadly their owner, a longstanding Redwings volunteer, was no longer able to provide the specialised care that a family of Poitou donkeys need.

Millie suffered from ongoing lameness issues, a condition that the breed is particularly susceptible to. She was put to sleep in January so that she did not suffer - leaving baby Arya an orphan.

As donkeys form very close bonds, Redwings kept a close eye on Arya, but she coped fantastically well and lived to fight another day.

With the support of her companions and the Sanctuary's care team, Arya, best friend Merlin and adoptive mum Adel were able to take up permanent residents at the Charity's Oxhill visitor centre in Warwickshire.

“Arya’s heartfelt tale, bold nature and adorable character make her the most perfect, fluffy addition to the Redwings Adoption Club”, the charity commented. "On Friday 3rd April, Arya will be making her debut as a fully-fledged Adoption Star."

Poitou donkeys are a very rare breed of donkey originating from France. With only 400 left in the world, they sport a shaggy coat and stand at an impressive 14.2hh (41cm taller than the average donkey).

For more information visit www.redwings.org.uk. 

Image (C) Redwings Horse Sanctuary