Care and Health: Donkeys need shelter from sun, wind and rain and a fresh water supply. Donkeys don’t need rugs, and they don’t like being put in a closed stall, a three sided shelter is the best, as they like to wander in and out. They need access to a mineral/salt lick block (horse block not cattle). Generally, one feed a day is all that is necessary. Donkeys require access to pasture and grassy hay , depending on the seasons they graze continuously (prime lucerne is only for breeding donkeys).Types of Hay stocks vary from state to state, so seek advice locally from your area produce supplier or vet. Donkeys in general like rougher grasses so don’t discount shedded or second grade hay; they will also eat bark, trees and leaves for roughage. Donkeys do not need pellets or grain as other farm animals, the simpler diet the better for the health of your donkey. Donkeys are not rubbish bins, so don’t give them scraps. Feeding treats can lead to fat donkeys which will cause serious health issues, everything in moderation, apples and carrots and the occasional gingernut biscuit for those farrier visits. There are many poisonous weeds and garden plants , do a check before pasturing a donkey , because it is green it does not mean it is edible! Hoofs need a farrier to trim and check every 3 months. Worming can be done by the owner with a paste and needs to be done on a regular basis every 3 months. Find a good understanding equine vet and farrier that are interested in donkeys and are available when needed. Most importantly donkeys are companionable animals, they need a paddock pal with them or over the fence, a lonely donkey makes for an unhappy and noisy neighbour. A donkey lifespan can be 25 - 35 years so get started early.
What type of Donkey: The type of donkey you choose generally depends on your budget. Miniature donkeys (according to Breed Registers) can be 36 inches maximum from the withers. Irish/English breed is the most popular and are a rideable size (36 inches upwards). This breed varies in price from $300-$1,500.00. The smallest breed is the Mediterranean Miniature donkey which is a natural breed of small donkey, not bred down in size. They vary in price range from $4,000-$6,000 and upwards. The largest breed is the Mammoth Donkey which is still very rare and expensive here in Australia. Some Australian breeders cross breed, so it’s worth enquiring into the bloodline and viewing registrations to confirm what type of donkey you are purchasing . There are breeders listed on web sites of each Donkey Society in every Australian State. This should be your first starting point of enquiry as your State’s Donkey Society can help you get in touch with local donkey owners. Donkey people are always very friendly and helpful, never be afraid to ask questions.
What to consider when thinking of Breeding:
The decision to breed needs to be seriously weighed up, I hear such tragic stories from folk who have not realised that running a full jack on their property can have serious consequences, the jack is only behaving the way nature intended
· Can you afford to feed the donkeys; breeding stock need additional feed requirements per day
· Don’t forget vet fees and farrier costs
· You will need several paddocks to separate pregnant jennies prior to foaling and of course dams and their foals from the jack. Never run a jack with a foal or immature jenny
· Only consider breeding a jenny that is over 3 years of age and a jack over 2 years
· Jacks can serve a jenny from 18 months so beware of your young jack foals and separate them
· Jennies come into season from 12 months and they will need to be separated from the jack (their sire)
· Gestation is 12 months and foals should remain with their dam till 6 months of age.
· Jennies come into season a week after foaling
· In warmer states (QLD) jennies can season throughout the year
· Before buying young foals, remember all foals are small and will grow up so check out the Dam and Sire , general rule is the foal will be as tall as the tallest parent.
· Always check the pedigree or blood line to make sure you invest in unrelated blood lines.
· Choose donkeys that have been handled from birth , with loving natures, when you visit your future donkeys they should come up to the fence curiously and be friendly not feral
Geldings are great fun always running and playing together, lots of fun to watch
Jennies are sweet and calm and very loving
Mix them together and they equally make great paddock pals and pets
It’s your choice!
What to consider when buying a Donkey :
· Can you afford to feed the donkey; unfortunately donkeys are not lawn mowers, and but selective eaters and need additional hay per day if pasture is poor
· Donkeys need a paddock companion as they are herd animals and will get very sad, grumpy and noisy if left alone.
· A secure safe paddock suitable to the size of the donkey ( at least one acre)
· Donkeys need to access fresh water and shelter and a Lick block
· Every three months feet need to be done as well as worming paste
· Strangles and tetanus injection once a year & possibly EI vaccine now
· Lots of attention and love
· Don’t encourage hand feeding
· Limit treats to farrier day or vet visits, you want your donkey to come to the fence for a hug not a bite!
· Only consider buying a jenny or a gelding for a pet
· Remember all foals are small and will grow up so check out the Dam and Sire; general rule the foal will be as tall as the tallest parent
Enjoy your donkey and cherish the time you can spend together , your life will be richer for your new friendship.
