JULY 2026
Babe & Hugo
How You Can Help
Babe’s Story
Babe is a lively, affectionate donkey who has captured the hearts of everyone at Oscar’s Place. She is a favorite among staff and volunteers, loves people, gives plenty of hugs, and will happily follow you around for attention. She is thriving and full of personality.
Babe was born in March 2024 to Sylvia, who arrived at Oscar’s Place in August 2023 after being rescued from an auction in rough shape alongside her sister Beatrice. In July 2025, we had to say goodbye to Sylvia. Her laminitis and pain became too severe, and despite all the care and love she received, she could no longer continue. Babe lost her mom far too soon—but she is not alone.
Today, Babe grows up alongside her aunt Beatrice and cousin Kate. The three of them form a close-knit family, comforting one another and enjoying life together. Together, these donkeys are healing from their past hardships and living a life full of love, safety, and joy.
Change the Life of a Donkey in Need
About the Photographer:
Johanna Siegmann is an internationally award-winning portrait and architecture photographer, specializing in photographing people with their pets. A collection of her unique images, which capture the relationship between humans and animals, has been published as In Good Company (Notable People with their Pets), available online and via special order from your local bookstore. Johanna believes in giving back to the community, and a portion of the proceeds from the book are going to charity. She has donated her time and talent to Oscar’s Place for this calendar project.
About Oscar's Place:
Oscar’s Place is a donkey adoption center and sanctuary in Northern California. We rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome donkeys otherwise destined for slaughter.
Millions of donkeys are killed for the collagen in their hides, used in traditional medicine and cosmetics. Unwanted donkeys are often sent to auctions where kill pen buyers are waiting. If we don’t step in first, they face a horrible fate.
Once rescued, staff and volunteers help each rescued donkey heal. Some donkeys find a loving forever home, and others enjoy lifelong care in our safe haven. Since 2021, we’ve saved 435+ donkeys and facilitated 175+ adoptions. Join us in creating a better world for donkeys.