Donkey Cuddling

Experience “Donkey Cuddling” at Campbell’s Lane Farm in Preston, where children and adults alike have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the adorable creatures. The donkeys do more than offer companionship; they offer acceptance and healing and help balance one’s nervous system, according to farm owner Anne Alvater.

Alvater and Blair Hope, owner of Heart Centered Animal Communication and Healing, lead the cuddling sessions two Sundays a month. Sessions last about an hour and cost $25 per person, Hope said. Sessions were suspended in July and August due to the heat, but are returning in September.

Altvater owns two herds of donkeys, so more than one session can be offered at a time. Participants book online and are divided between fields.

“They just go in; they groom; they sit; they talk to them (the donkeys),” Alvater said.

Some of the donkeys love to hug and be hugged, Hope said, adding that spending time with the donkeys is therapeutic and a great stress reliever. They are non-judgmental, accepting others as they are.

“Sometimes we have to move people along if there’s another group coming, because people just love being with them,” Altvater said. “And sometimes, like young kids, they’re done in five minutes, but some of them, you have to drag them away. Everybody’s different.”

Visitors can also pet goats and miniature horses and enjoy bathtub rides.

An educator and group facilitator, Altvater said she envisions the farm as a holistic venue. She aims to provide a healing space and support people in discovering their passions. The farm also offers a variety of classes and retreats, many of which incorporate the donkeys.

Campbell’s Lane Farm is located at 22862 Dover Bridge Rd. in Preston. For a schedule of events, go to the website campbellslanefarm.com or check the farm’s Facebook page.

Upcoming events include:

Sept. 18 – Donkey Paint and Pet event, for ages 12 and up. 6 to 6:30 p.m., check in and cuddle time with the donkeys. 6:30 to 8 p.m., paint an 8x10 portrait of “Boo” under the guidance of Nicole, with breaks for more cuddles as needed. Bring a drink and bug spray. Wear closed-toed shoes.

Sept.19 – Donkeys and Dahlias, 6 to 8 p.m. Transform a pumpkin into a beautiful dahlia centerpiece using Vintage Family Farms’ blooms. Then finish the evening with donkey cuddles.

Sept. 25 – Create Your Own Adorable Donkey, 6 to 8 p.m. Paigr from Farm Felt Girl will guide participants through the art of needle felting as they craft their own felted donkey. All materials are provided. Save time for donkey cuddles.

Oct. 11 – Holistic Fall Festival: Donkeys, Nature, Fun, Artisan Market, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., a day of connection, community, and creativity. Donate a canned good for the Maryland Food Bank and receive a chance to win a basket.