DALLAS — Since Willie and Waylon arrived at Dallas’ Old City Park around 2016, they have been good donkeys.
“Step up. Good boy. Let’s get you tied back up,” said 18-year-old Nex Lewis as she worked with the donkeys.
However, on Friday, the donkeys were being asses. “No, you’re not going to your brother’s. Wait. Wait. Waylon,” said Lewis as she tripped over Willie’s halter.
Lewis has been coming to Old City Park since she was little. She worked her way up from a volunteer to the park’s Animal Care Manager tending to the brother donkeys daily.
“I’ve learned how to deal with my frustrations,” Lewis as she turned to Willie who interrupted her by grabbing on her jacket. “Don’t eat me. Don’t be mean,” said Lewis.
Watch the full interview with Nex Lewis:
The three, Willie, Waylon and Lewis, have a really close bond. They’re like family, but the sassiness on Friday is justified.
“Willie and Waylon, will be moving to their new home,” said Sarah Crain, Old City Park Chief Operating Officer. “I do think they know something is up. They’re a little sassier.”
Since 1969, the park has been managed by the Dallas County Heritage Society.
“Our contract from 1993 was up in May 2023. We received an extension from the City of Dallas until May 2024,” said Crain.
With the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department taking over, all animals and park artifacts must move to new homes.
“I’m extremely sad since I’ve been around them for so long. I’m doing my best not to cry especially now,” said Lewis as she held back tears.
Old City Park remained closed for the day as the donkeys were picked up to go to their new home. The sweet goodbye was comforted by their new welcome.
“Let me assure Dallas neighbors that Willie and Waylon will absolutely be going to a beloved home that was vetted repeatedly to make sure that they will get as much love as we have given them over the years,” said Crain.
The park will share the brothers’ new home once they get adjusted.
“They’re also very intelligent animals. If there is a new item in place, if there is something new for them to explore and discover, obviously we want to give them time to acclimate,” said Crain.
“It’s like seeing family leave,” said Lewis. For her, it is the flashbacks of her bond with the donkeys that will always keep them together.