TikToker Elodie Estermann recently shared a heartbreaking video of her mini donkey, Quadrille, trying to seek shelter from the rain under the tiny roof of an enclosure they use to store firewood. Viewers were outraged, wondering why she wouldn’t provide him with a bigger shelter to get out of the weather. But things aren’t always what they seem.
Though her video caption was in French, TikTok offers a translation feature, and what it said really puts the scene into perspective. “Since his brother died, Quadrille feels very alone and sad… he spends his time calling us, and even when it rains, he prefers to stay close to the house (of us) rather than go to shelter in his cabin… my heart is in pieces.”
Elodie’s video got us right in the feelers! It was sad to see Quadrille just standing there in the rain, but after learning why he chose to stand there, the whole situation became even more heartbreaking!
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Commenters’ Mixed Reactions to the Sad Donkey Standing in the Rain
Viewers had plenty to say about Quadrille standing in the rain, leaving nearly 5,000 comments. It quickly became clear that many people watched the video without reading the caption. Those who hadn’t read it were outraged, thinking Elodie had left him out there with no protection, while readers who saw the caption made sure to correct them.
One angry commenter said, “They built a shelter for the wood, but not their pet donkey.” @theonlykenecce quickly replied, “First to comment, last to read.” @zapper75 agreed, “Reading is a high IQ skill nowadays…”, while @benjen added, “Read the caption before you judge.”
The original commenter replied, “Okay, sorry, didn’t see the caption, but if he likes to be close to you, then add on to the wood pile and give him some more shelter, please.” We still don’t think that person is clear that he has shelter; he’s just choosing to stand there!
Another comment that kept popping up was that it was time to get Quadrille a friend. @Sentient21 shared, “There are many donkeys that need rescue. GET another one!” We laughed when @CPP replied, “I love how we feel so entitled to order things online to complete strangers. That being said: YES! Get another donkey friend for that beautiful baby!!!!!! LOL!”
Hopefully, Elodie can afford to get Quadrille a friend, and we’re hoping for an update soon!
This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Nov 7, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.