The Kelley Square
Jewelry For Your Horse
Donkey Care
...The modern donkey has descended from wild asses in North Africa. Donkeys were domesticated around 
6,000 years ago and have been used by humans for a number of tasks ever since. They have been used as a pack animal, for riding, and to pull a cart just to name a few. Donkeys are known to be sure footed, hardy and very strong for their size. When faced with danger they are more likely to freeze in place rather than flee like a horse. They are very social animals and form strong bonds with other animals and the people that work with them. Their care is slightly different from a horse and, hopefully, this article will give you the information you need for a happy and healthy donkey.
FEEDING
...Donkeys have adapted over the years to a high fiber and low quality forage diet. They are more selective while grazing in a pasture but will eat freely when presented with a high quality hay or very lush pastures. This can result in an overweight donkey. Donkeys are also susceptible to founder and laminitis so their protein intake must be monitored.
...A good quality grass hay like timothy, bermuda or brome is suggested to be the best for donkeys. A high protein hay like alfalfa can be too rich and can lead to an overweight donkey. For most donkeys, grain is not needed unless the donkey is a hard working one. Donkeys should be fed around 2% of their body weight per day divided into 2 or 3 feedings a day. This includes hay, pasture grass and grain, if needed. Hay or pasture should make up at least 90% of the intake. So, if a donkey weighs 500 lbs he should get 10 lbs of feed a day... at least 9 lbs of that should be hay or pasture grasses.
...Donkeys should have access to a salt and minerals. You can offer this in either a mineralized salt block or a granulated type that you put on top of their feed everyday.
WATER
...Donkeys require cool, clean and clear water to drink. They can be very picky and will not drink from murky or foul water. Water tanks must be cleaned regularly. If you would drink from it yourself, it will be good enough for the donkey.
SHELTER
...Donkeys require shelter in their pasture. They lack the protective undercoat that horses have and don't like being outside in very cold or wet weather. A three sided shelter that is facing away from the prevailing winds works well. A four sided shelter with a door or a run in stall is even better.
VACCINATIONS
...Donkey's should receive the same basic vaccinations as a horse. They should get vaccinated for Eastern/ Western Encephalitis, Influenza, Rhinopneumonitis, West Nile, Tetanus and possibly Rabies. Many areas of the country require different vaccinations so check with your vet for the best equine vaccination schedule for your specific area.
HOOF CARE
...Horses and donkeys have the same basic requirements for hoof care. They should be cleaned daily with a hoof pick and trimmed every 4 – 8 weeks, depending on individual growth and wear rates. Shoes are usually not needed unless they do a lot of work on hard surfaces. The donkeys hoof is shaped slightly different from a horses so regular hoof care by a knowledgeable farrier is important. If your farrier has never trimmed a donkey hoof before, the ADMS (American Donkey and Mule Society) has a hoof packet available that can help. Please e-mail them at lovelongears@hotmail.com for more information.
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GROOMING
...In general, donkeys love to be groomed. A good stiff brushing over the body and softer brushing around the face and legs is all they need. Use this time to check him/her over for cuts or other problems. You can give them the occasional bath too... using warm water helps gain the cooperation of the donkey.
WORMING
...Donkeys can be particularly susceptible to internal parasites so a consistent worming schedule is important for the health of your donkey. Every other month alternate between ivermectin and fenbendazole. Use Prazyquantel twice annually for tapeworms. Check with your local veterinarian for the best worming schedule for your area of the country.
DENTAL CARE
...Donkeys require regular floating every couple of years, just like horses. The vet or equine dentist will file down sharp points on the teeth that can give the donkey trouble while eating.
...Donkeys live longer than horses on average (horses average 25 – 30 years and donkeys can live 45 or more). They are very social creatures and should not be kept without a companion animal since they can get lonely. Owning a donkey as a pet or a working companion can be a very rewarding experience. The way you care for him or her will determine the overall health and happiness of your donkey. This article should have given you a great starting point in knowing how to care for this wonderful creature. If you would like more information please see the sources listed below.
SOURCES
Donkeys and Mules, Magbook
Published by Hobby Farms Magazine
ADMS (American Donkey and Mule Society), Website
Li'l Angels Miniature Donkeys, Website
MORE DONKEY INFORMATION
If you do a google search for donkey care you will come up with numerous resources. There are also books, magazines and many breeders out there willing to help you care for your longears.