A beloved donkey named Cupid is lucky to be alive after surviving a horrifying and bizarre attack in the California desert, where he was shot through the neck with a two-foot-long arrow.
The shocking act of animal cruelty was discovered on Monday at the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue in San Bernardino County. Mark Meyers, the organisation's president, recounted the moment of disbelief upon finding the injured animal. "We've seen a lot, but this is a first," he stated, describing the arrow that was lodged clean through the donkey's neck.
A Miraculous Escape
In what rescuers are calling a miraculous escape, the arrow remarkably missed Cupid's major arteries, spine, and oesophagus. Veterinarians successfully sedated the five-year-old burro and carefully removed the projectile during a delicate procedure.
"He's a very lucky donkey," a rescue spokesperson confirmed. "The arrow could have very easily been fatal. It's an absolute miracle it didn't hit anything vital."
Community Outrage and Police Investigation
The senseless attack has provoked widespread outrage and a full investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, who are treating the case as severe animal cruelty. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The incident has also triggered an overwhelming wave of public support. The rescue centre reported a significant influx of donations from across the globe from people moved by Cupid's plight, all earmarked for his ongoing care and recovery.
Cupid is expected to make a full physical recovery, though rescuers note the psychological trauma may take longer to heal. The gentle burro, described as friendly and trusting, is now receiving round-the-clock care and will be reintroduced to his herd gradually.
