From Northern Hungary, in the wild and beautiful Creek-side Valley near the Aggtelek Karst region, I am reaching out with urgency and hope.

Nearly one hundred Hungarian native donkeys — the "Creek-Side Donkeys” — now depend on us for their survival.

My name is György Markovics. I am a small-scale farmer and grassland manager. I have always believed that animals are sentient beings, not tools. As a vegetarian and long-time animal advocate, I have supported rescue efforts and animal protection initiatives for years.

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But I never planned to become responsible for nearly 100 donkeys.

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Through an agri-ecological program, I took responsibility for 17 Hungarian native donkeys. At the time, I didn't know that within a short time, nearly a hundred lives would be in my hands.

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When I first faced reality

 

In the fall of 2023, I encountered shocking conditions at the farm. The original owner of the larger herd became seriously ill and was no longer able to supervise the farm. Unopened hay bales stood nearby while donkeys died.

We acted immediately. We ended the starvation and stabilized the herd. Realizing the seriousness of his condition, the owner asked me to take over the entire herd.

That is how nearly 100 lives came into my care.

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The current situation

 

The most urgent issue is winter feed.

One donkey needs approximately 10 large round bales of hay during the autumn–winter season.

For nearly 100 donkeys, including transport, this means around 15 million HUF (approximately $45,000) per season — not including veterinary care, pasture rent, and essential labor. And costs can rise depending on weather conditions.

I have invested all my savings and income into their care.

But I cannot secure the long-term safety of nearly 100 animals alone.

 

Shocking statistics

 

Every year, around 5.8 million donkeys become tragic victims worldwide. The market for donkey meat is also growing in Europe and Hungary. For an animal that has been a helper to families for centuries, a source of joy for children, an aid to rural life, and a faithful companion to humans, this is morally and culturally unacceptable.

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We want to show that there is an alternative for donkeys. We want to create a long-term sustainable, exemplary model in Hungary with cross-border educational goals: ​: ​

·    health promotion programs (donkey therapies)
·    sustainable grassland management for nature conservation
·    animal welfare approach, herd management, ensuring a dignified life for current and future animals.

 

I believe that what one person cannot achieve alone, a committed community can.

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How You Can Help

 

·    With a donation – Every donation matters — no amount is too small.
·    By sharing the campaign
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• Connecting us with partners or organizations and raising international awareness

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All support goes directly to caring for the donkeys!

 

Please support the "Creekside Donkeys"!

 

With gratitude and hope,

Markovics György

Small-scale farmer & grassland manager

Rét-patak Valley, Hungary

 

 

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