THE Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary team have said they are devastated following the death of most adopted donkey.
Last week, Poppy was rushed to Liphook Equine Hospital near Petersfield, with internal bleeding.
The donkey returned to the sanctuary in Wroxall on Monday, however her condition deteriorated, and on Wednesday vets decided it would be best to put her down.
The donkey moved to the sanctuary with her mother Rosie over 25 years ago, and was part of the sanctuary's traditional herd.
However, in recent months, Poppy joined the sanctuary's miniature herd, where she was paired with an Island donkey called Bella, who stayed with her 'through thick and thin' the sanctuary said.
The animal was known for her 'beautiful chestnut coat and distinctive cross markings on her back'.
Many people adopted Poppy due to her name and the association with Remembrance Day.
In a Facebook statement on Wednesday, the sanctuary said: "We are sorry to announce that during the night, Poppy’s medical condition deteriorated badly; this morning Poppy was very poorly again.
"Our vets immediately checked her over and it was very apparent that the internal bleed had re-occurred and her condition was more serious than last week.
"Our vets spoke to the Liphook Equine Hospital team, and it was agreed that despite all of our efforts over the last 10 days, nothing more could be done to save our beloved Poppy. The only kind option available to us was to put Poppy to sleep, surrounded calmly and peacefully by her donkey friends."
They added: "Words cannot describe our emotions and our feelings. The entire team have tried absolutely everything to save Poppy and we are completely devastated at today’s turn of events.
"We would like thank everyone who has sent in well-wishes, thoughts and love for Poppy over the last week."
Derek Needham, one of the charity's managers, added: "Wightlink were incredible, the staff were wishing their best at every opportunity. I say this because we all grumble about ferries now and again, but we can't praise them enough."