History: The Mediterranean Miniature Donkey came from the Islands of Sardinia and Siciliy to America in the 1930's. A small strong,compact animal with a huge personality became popular and over the years breeders in the USA and Canada have developed the breed with exciting colours of sorrel, black and spot and varying confirmation of small, draughty or fine features.
Description: Pure breed Mediterranean Miniature Donkeys should be registered with a society such as the American Donkey and Mule Society or the Australian Register for American Mediterranean Miniature Donkeys. A pedigree should be available showing at least two generations of both dam and sire.The acceptable height should be under 36 inches and average is 32- 34 inches. Colour varies from the original gray dun with cross to a variety of solid colours such as brown, sorrel,white,black, apricot roan,spotted with blaze and broken colours. A male is called a jack and a female is called a Jenny or Jennet. Gestation varies from 11 months to 13 months and an expectant owner needs to be well informed and prepared for the arrival of the foal. There is nothing more adorable than a Mediterranean Miniature Donkey Foal.
Owning a Pet Donkey: These little donkeys have a wonderful loving nature and as well as providing companionship they also need companionship from either another donkey, human or houshold pet. Although they are herd animals, they love attention and seek it constantly. They are not stupid, but cautious and they also have excellent memories. Donkeys like to play games , so never underestimate what a donkey can do, open, eat, or find. They are low-maintenace and very user -friendly, and can be useful on small farms for paddock maintenance in hard to maintain areas, pulling a cart, or carrying small loads as well as alerting to intruders either human or animal. New owners should find out as much history of their new donkey as possible and to be aware of any past health problems. Donkeys can become physically sick from stress and are effected by changes in enviroment and lifestyle. Get to know your donkey, take a blanket and take time to sit with them so they can learn to trust you, as you learn to trust them. Visit your donkey for a cuddle and a hug often, don't always take treats as this encourages greedy donkeys with bad habits . You will be surprised how much you will benefit from owning, caring and loving a little donkey or two!
Reading and Internet Resources:There is much to learn from the internet, you can even buy a donkey on the interent like I did! Most breeders will be happy to answer any questions, so don't be afraid to ask. There are many donkey societys, magazines, and books available all with valuable information, hints and tips.
Here are just a few BOOKS:
- Donkey Business III (Australia) Best guide there is! By Christine Berry and Jo-Ann Kokas
- Caring for Your Miniature Donkey (USA) By Bonnie R. Gross
- Donkey Foaling Manual (USA) By Bonnie R. Gross
- Professional Handbook of the Donkey (UK) Complied for the Donkey Society By Dr. Elisabeth. D. Svendsen
MAGAZINES AND DONKEY SOCIETIES :
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