What did Perry die of? The iconic donkey’s departure was due to a disease known as laminitis, an inflammation of the horse’s hoof. Care and attention did not prevent Perry’s passing, but his indelible memory will always remain in the form of the mythical character Donkey. For reference, a donkey in captivity can live to be 40 years old.

Perry, the Bay Area donkey who was the inspiration behind the beloved character in the DreamWorks' 2001 film "Shrek," died at the age of 30.