Horse Sense Donkeys on the Homestead
Photo Copyright Daniel Johnson / Fox Hill Photo are often leery of canines, which is why they can be effective at keeping coyotes away; on the other hand, your donkey may also extend this distrust to your farm dogs, so keep that consideration in mind.
A donkey ' s loud bray is almost as iconic as its long ears, so you ' ll want to think seriously about whether or not " hee-haw, hee-haw " is something you ' d enjoy as a continual part of the soundtrack of your homestead. Some people find the sound endearing; others don ' t.
Daily Care
Caring for a donkey is similar to caring for any other equine. Your donkey will need all the basics: a
AcreageLife. com safe and comfortable environment( including shelter and turnout), an appropriate diet, continuous access to fresh water, and regular care from a veterinarian and farrier. But while the generalities are similar between caring for horses and caring for donkeys, there are also distinct differences in the specifics of caring for the two.
Nutritional requirements vary widely and always depend on the individual, but as a rule donkeys thrive best when not overfed( Penn State Extension estimates that donkeys are typically fed 25 % less than horses of the same size). Grass hay and lesser-quality pasture often suit donkeys just fine, thanks to their excellent digestive systems. It ' s important to discuss your donkey ' s diet with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist; Penn State Extension notes that donkeys can be susceptible to laminitis and obesity.
Hoof care is essential, and donkeys benefit from conditions that keep their feet dry. Prolonged exposure to dampness( indoors or out) can be problematic for a donkey ' s hooves, and dry conditions are much more beneficial.
It ' s important to have a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about donkeys, especially when it comes to medications, as they differ from horses in this area.
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