How did Perry, the donkey die? Cause of death explored as the Shrek model dies aged 30

Perry the Donkey, widely believed to be the inspiration behind Eddie Murphy's "Donkey" character in Shrek, has passed away at age 30. Palo Alto Online reported that the miniature donkey succumbed to a hoof disease called laminitis.

Per the Barron Park website, the life spans of such donkeys typically range from 25 to 30 years old in the wild, though they can continue into their 40s if well-cared for. Perry was born in 1994, and by three years old, he moved to Barron Park, Palo Alto, California, where he stayed until his death.

All we know about Perry's death as handlers say he had an incurable, painful disease

The Palo Alto Daily Post has also reported that Perry's demise was officially announced by Jenny Kiratli, who is spearheading the Barron Park Donkey Project. Apart from serving as the inspiration for Shrek's Donkey, Perry was the mascot of his city. Per CBS, in the years leading up to his demise and amid his ailing state, the City Council shelled out a staggering $10,000 on his medical bills.

Kiratli issued a formal statement in the wake of Perry the donkey's passing, noting:

"It is with great sadness that I am reporting the death of the incomparable Perry. We are heartbroken with his passing, but recently he had been in increasing pain, suffering from a condition known as laminitis which is not curable. This was the right time (for him) to say goodbye although still too soon for us.”

The statement added:

"In Perry’s last weeks, handlers spent many hours at the pasture with him, petting him, cradling him, singing to him, and telling him that he was and always will be loved. We are all blessed for having known him and we will never, ever forget him.”

Barron Park also took to their Instagram account to upload an image of Perry grazing in a field, peering at the camera. The post also revealed that Perry was afflicted with an incurable, painful condition called laminitis:

"We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Barron Park donkey, Perry, passed away yesterday at the age of 30. He was a beloved member of our community and we know many people will be touched by his passing. Memorial plans will be announced soon."

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The first installment of the Shrek series came out in 2001 and was a massive hit. It eventually went on to earn an Oscar for Best Animated Feature. The plot revolves around a lonely ogre who stumbles upon a humorous talking donkey. The two become friends and go on adventures together.

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