The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary has revealed its sadness over the death of resident, Hazel, on Sunday.
She had arrived in Wroxall, from Whitwell, after her owners fell ill, moving in with best friend, Hannah, around three months ago.
Hazel first showed showed signs of distress, on Saturday.
A vet was called out and Hazel, 18, was transferred to Liphook, Hampshire, accompanied by another of the Sanctuary's donkeys and was encouraged onto a horsebox with a carrot.
Tests and scans revealed she had acute organ failure.
Her condition worsened overnight.
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On Sunday morning, a decision was made to put Hazel to sleep.
The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary wrote on its social media: "We made the decision that we never want to make.
"Dramatic things like this can occur with donkeys; Hazel had shown no sign of illness, no irregularities in condition and was happily eating and enjoying being with her friends, only a week ago.
"We will be taking special care of Hannah, to make sure she is coping with the loss of her best friend."
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