Remember
Donkeys are appealing, intelligent animals, but they can be demanding in terms of time, land and money. They require daily visits and particular attention during the winter.
A donkey needs
• Companionship - to be with other donkeys or ponies and people. They can be noisy when deprived of a companion.
• A net inside a field shelter or stable containing a mix of hay and barley straw and occasionally an apple or a carrot to eat.
• A salt/mineral lick.
• Concentrates (high energy food enriched with minerals and vitamins) in winter months.
• A constant supply of fresh clean water.
• A hectare of pasture, preferably divided in two so that parts of the field can be used in rotation (used alternately).
• Pasture that is well-managed and kept clear of poisonous plants (especially Ragwort).
• Grassland that has good secure boundaries.
• A draughtproof shelter of stable with straw for bedding.
• To be kept warm and dry in the winter and away from flies and sun in the summer.
• Daily exercise.
• Gentle regular grooming, particularly in spring.
• Its feet to be picked out each day (removal of grit and stones).
• Visits from the farrier for hoof trimming every four to eight weeks.
• Worming several times a year.
• Routine vaccinations and teeth trimming if required.
• Careful and sensitive handling.
• To be under the care of a veterinary surgeon.
• Your time and interest for the rest of its life
FACT SHEET
Lifespan: Up to 30 years (but may be longer).
Sexually mature: Jennies (females) - 18 months,
Jacks (males) - 6 - 12 months.
In season (When jenny is fertile and can be made pregnant):
Every three weeks for 5 - 7 days.
Gestation (Length of pregnancy): 10 - 14 months.
Number of offspring: One
Handling
Donkeys need to be approached cautiously. Approach from the head and speak as you do. Donkeys enjoy being groomed and gentle handling. Sudden noises upset donkeys
Companionship
Donkeys are friendly animals and will be unhappy if kept alone. A pony or goat may make a suitable friend. Human companionship is also needed
AILMENTS
Lice
Infected donkeys will rub themselves vigorously on gates and fence posts. Seek advice from your veterinary surgeon
Mud fever
Caused by constant exposure to wet weather. Occurs mostly on the ears, nose and lower forelegs. Seek advice from a veterinary surgeon
Sweet itch
A kind of eczema. The symptoms are a badly rubbed mane and tail. Seek veterinary advice
Intestinal worms
Almost all donkeys will pick up worms and need regular worming
Scouring (diarrhoea)
Can be caused by dietary changes and worms. Seek advice from a veterinary surgeon
Colic
Stomach pain often due to indigestion. A donkey will kick at its stomach. It can be fatal, so consult a veterinary surgeon.
Hyperlipaemia
The most common killer disease of donkeys, associated with stress and obesity. Consult your veterinary surgeon straightaway if the donkey is off its food, uncomfortable and standing over a water trough but not drinking.
Remember if your pet is showing unusual symptoms bring it to your local vet
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