They should not be kept on grass, as it is too rich for them. They can jump over a pretty high fence by going straight up and over they don't need a running start. They do not care for streams if you need to lead them through one. On the other hand, though they have been known to kill rattlesnakes and rabid skunks, they will not be capable of protecting themselves or their charges against larger prey animals, necessarily.ĭonkeys love the heat to bask in, dirt or sand to roll in, and a rocky or dirt knoll to climb on. They can be territorial and could turn on their charges or any other animal that comes into their area. Not all donkeys are cut out to be guard animals. You will need to be patient when training them to take a halter, be led, lift their feet for trimming, get in a trailer, or do anything else, so it might be better to take on two trained older donkeys if you don't have the time. They are more super-cautious than stubborn. They will need their shots and a fecal check a couple of times a year, and will probably need a wormer twice a year.ĭonkeys like to think about something before they do it. Make sure you get a veterinarian and a farrier who are patient with donkeys, as they have extremely good memories and will take a bad experience to heart. If your ground is stony, their hooves might wear away on their own, but get a farrier in at least a couple of times a year to see how their hooves are wearing down. Straw would be a good supplemental feed to the forage. You are right about a sparse, foraging diet being best for donkeys, as any grain or too much hay can turn them fat and unhealthy, leading to possible laminitis of the feet. Many sanctuaries will only adopt out a donkey if there is another donkey in the home. It would be ideal to take in two donkeys at a time. Most importantly, donkeys are happiest with another donkey companion.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |