DONKEY CARE – SO YOU WANT TO OWN A DONKEY!
A donkey should be a happy addition to your family so it is important to buy wisely and well. Find out as much as you can about donkeys and their care. The DSV holds information days and other events where you can meet donkey owners and breeders who are only too happy to chat with newcomers about donkeys, passing on their valuable knowledge.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A DONKEY?
It is surprising how often this question is asked. In a nutshell …. the same things you would do with a horse. That is riding, driving, showing, trekking, trail rides and lots of cuddles!
DONKEY INFORMATION
Good donkeys are scarce, so expect to wait a while for one that will suit you. Meanwhile consider these suggestions:
1. Go to our Studs page and make contact with those breeding donkeys of the sort you hope to buy. It is common practice to book a foal, even before birth. That means a lengthy wait, since foals are not available until after weaning at around 6 months. It’s worth waiting for a good animal.
2. Join the Society. Members receive Brayings and Donkey Digest magazines. You might also like to attend some events, meet other members and learn more before you commit yourself to a donkey.
THE LINKS BELOW ARE DOWNLOADABLE PDF FILES
Buying a Donkey
Guide to Buying a Donkey
Standards of Conformation and Type
Points of a Donkey
One Donkey or Two
Basic Donkey Care
Always buy a jenny or gelding in preference to a colt or a jack (entire male) as a mature jack requires special conditions and experienced owners; a jack is not suitable for children or beginners, or as a pet. A good breeder will not sell you a jack unless you are very sure you want a jack for breeding purposes.
Respect for Jacks
A donkey is not a cheap horse. You will need a suitable place to keep a donkey and enough time to care for it properly. A good animal will cost money to buy and keep it happy and healthy. If you buy wisely you should not regret the time and money spent.
Keeping a Donkey Healthy and Happy
Keeping a Donkey on a Small Acreage
Feeding in Time of Drought
Donkey Body Condition Score Chart
Death by Hanging – Beware of the Halter
Donkeys are herd animals and need company. It is NOT enough to buy a donkey, put him in the paddock and only visit him once a week. A donkey is a highly intelligent animal: educate him, and get him doing something interesting. A bored donkey is not a happy one.
A Well Trimmed Hoof
Presentation at Shows
Driving Notes
Riding Notes
Trekking Notes
Hoof Trimming Donkeys – The Donkey Sanctuary (UK)
RECOMMENDED BOOKS
