Suzanne Gibbons, the creator of Animal Haven sanctuary in Ireland, immediately sprung into action.

Due to a storm breaking the enclosure gate, the donkey roamed out and found itself ensnared in swiftly increasing waters.

Seeking aid, the donkey’s owner contacted Gibbons, detailing the critical situation and pleading for assistance.

Recognizing the urgent need for help, Gibbons turned to Facebook to seek assistance. She outlined the requirement for a boat, sturdy individuals, and rope to have any hope of saving the stranded donkey.

Thankfully, it didn’t take long for people to respond to her plea.
The local community came together, providing the essential supplies and manpower for the rescue mission.

Initially encountering difficulties in finding willing individuals to venture into the hazardous floodwaters with her, Gibbons shared with BuzzFeed News,

“At first, I couldn’t find anybody willing to help me go in because the river was flooding really badly.” However, before long, Mike Fleming, a member of the Killorglin Rowing Club, stepped up to lend a hand.

He not only offered his assistance but also his boat, which proved to be crucial for the undertaking.

The rescue itself unfolded as a tense operation.

Equipped with life preservers and ropes, Gibbons and her team meticulously maneuvered to secure the frightened yet cooperative donkey.
A life preserver was placed around the donkey’s neck, with a rope attached, leading the animal slowly but steadily to safety.

The moment was captured on video, showcasing the compassion and bravery of the rescuers.

Gibbons couldn’t commend the efforts of Mike Fleming and another assistant, Declan, enough.Reflecting on the ordeal, she conveyed to thejournal.ie,

“Never say something can’t be done, just do it. Declan and Mike were beyond brave. So many people told me, ‘Don’t do it, it can’t be done, you can’t swim, you’ll get killed.’ These two men just said, ‘Okay girl, let’s give it a go.’”
Following the donkey’s return to stable ground, relief flooded the atmosphere.
However, undoubtedly the happiest soul was the donkey itself.

Dubbed Mike after his rescuer, the donkey wore a wide grin once out of harm’s way – almost as if expressing gratitude.

This infectious smile quickly went viral, capturing hearts globally.

Post-rescue, Mike the donkey underwent meticulous care at the sanctuary.
He was dried, fed a substantial meal, and administered antibiotics to forestall any potential illnesses post-ordeal.

As shared with BuzzFeed, a vet examined Mike over concerns of pneumonia, with the donkey kept under a heat lamp for added comfort.
Fortunately, Mike seemed to recover admirably.

Mike’s viral smile not only commemorated the event but conveyed gratitude in a manner words couldn’t.

It was his way of saying “thank you” to the gallant rescuers who had risked their lives to save him.

His expression spoke volumes – sheer joy and relief.

Explore the video below to delve deeper into this remarkable rescue and the immensely grateful donkey!