Donkeys are strong and stoic animals, but, no matter how much they act like it, they’re still not invincible. These sweet creatures can get lost or be clumsy, and that’s when it’s up to the humans who love them to keep them safe and sound. Still, it’s impossible to predict an animal’s every move, and accidents can happen.

Kaiann Buchanan learned this for herself on February 19, after her senior donkey, Roger, didn’t show up for breakfast. Roger was often the last donkey to arrive for breakfast, so she didn’t think twice, but later she discovered him stuck in a small hole in the woods. He was so relieved to be found!

Poor Roger! It doesn’t take an animal expert to hear the desperation and emotion in his voice. He’d probably been calling out to no avail for hours, but he finally saw a familiar face when he needed it the most.

“I don’t know much about donkeys, but I’m pretty sure Roger was crying,” agreed commenter @poolgirl2000five. He was so heartbroken about missing breakfast! Fortunately, he wasn’t seriously hurt when he took a wrong turn in the woods, so it wasn’t long before this sweet donkey could return home and catch up on meals.

Related: Herd of Sweet Miniature Donkeys Can’t Get Enough of Dad’s ‘Disney Prince’ Singing Voice

Plenty of people can relate to @buring_equine and “the way I’d be sobbing while trying to help my poor old friend out of his predicament.” Anyone who’s ever loved an animal can feel Kaiann’s relief and concern for her pet donkey, which is why her update video helped put all her viewers’ hearts back together again.

It’s such a relief to know he’s okay after his close call! It only took one wrong step for Roger to get stuck, but it also only took one worried human to find him. Clearly, this donkey and his mama have the closest bond!

Senior Donkeys

The life expectancy of a donkey is about 30 years, but any donkey over 20 years old is considered a senior. To keep an older donkey feeling their best, dietary and environmental changes, like giving them a smaller area to roam, may be necessary.

Regular checkups and time spent together will help a donkey’s human detect any behavioral changes that can indicate age-related health concerns. Like many species, senior donkeys will begin to lose their sight and vision, though most donkeys can continue to live comfortably with enough support and love.

Clearly, Roger has no shortage of love with Kaiann around. He’s a happy, healthy adventurer who’s enjoying his golden years with his human and donkey friends.

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This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Feb 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.