Keeping a donkey – top tips
- If you just want a pet or companion, then consider a rescue (see the Donkey Sanctuary site for the UK).
- Always have a companion for your donkey – if not another donkey, then a pony or goat.
- Donkeys do not have waterproof coats like horses and must have access to shelter, preferably at all times.
- Fencing: donkeys will chew wood so any wooden posts and rails will need regular treatment with wood treatment. I have found the best fencing to be squared wire (stock fence) strained tight with training wire.
- Get to know poisonous plants that might be a danger and check your field regularly
- Bedding: hemp bedding is very absorbant and warm and comfortable.
- Many donkeys get overfed and suffer from laminitis. Be very careful about the new spring grass which is very rich and can cause problems.
- Spend time watching and looking at your animals. You can learn a lot this way.
- Donkeys love carrots but remember to cut them lengthwise and not across – the small round shapes could get stuck in their throat. Ginger biscuits also go down well.
- Water: donkeys are fussy drinkers and like clean water. Use either a tank that can be cleaned regularly or buckets that are changed twice daily.
- Make sure your donkeys have regular hoof trims, worming sessions and vaccinations
- If your donkey won’t go, don’t be tempted to get in front and pull. They will dig their hooves in and pull right back. Stay back by their shoulder and drive them forward using your voice and a light tap with the whip if necessary. If they step back, you step back. It takes patience and perseverance but is worth it in the end.
This entry was posted on March 19, 2007 at 8:06 am and is filed under Real Me. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
