Donkeys - Diet
Donkeys are known to have low energy requirements. They are prone to obesity. Therefore, it is vitally important not to overfeed them. Donkeys need a high quality pasture to avoid possible metabolic disorders. Basically, from May to early September, pasture tends to provide nutritious food for donkeys. In winter, high quality hay and grain will be the pasture's substitute.
Donkeys need a salt and mineral mix, as some minerals can be deficient in the feeds of your region. Keep in mind, that donkeys like to always have clean and fresh water available. They drink up to 25 liters per day.
You should watch your donkey in order to determine whether it needs more or less feed. The quantity of food the donkey requires depends on the age, the use and the general health condition of the animal.
Donkeys - Maintaining
Donkeys are relatively easy to care for. To avoid health problems, quality pasture, nutritious food, sunshine and good sanitary housing are required. In order to keep the donkey's skin and hair in good condition and to avoid lice problems, regular brushing is needed. The donkey's hooves require proper trimming 3-4 times a year. A professional should do hoof trimming. Otherwise, you can injure the donkey and yourself. A veterinarian should check your donkey's teeth once a year.
Yearly vaccination for rabies and other infectious diseases is essential. It is necessary to look out for the physical and behavioral changes in your donkey. Donkeys are hardy and healthy animals, however, it is their owner who makes them live a long and happy life.
Donkeys - Clubs Links
American Donkey and Mule Society - All-breed club covers donkeys, mules, zebra crosses, and miniatures. Offers research library service, education about the breeds, and a registry.
American Council of Spotted Asses - A non-profit corporation dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the Spotted Ass.
California Donkey and Mule Association - California club's members enjoy, learn about, and promote long-eared equines (donkeys, mules) through shows and play days. Members receive a bi-monthly newsletter.
Donkey Breed Society - British Society for the Donkey, and for those whose love and interest is in the Donkey.
The Donkey Sanctuary - The largest sanctuary for donkeys in the world. A charity dedicated to providing riding therapy with donkeys.
Donkeys - General Information Links
Ass and Donkey - Scan the distribution, diet, characteristics, habits, behavior, species, habitat, ecology, and anatomy of the hoofed, herbivorous mammal. Read on Asian and African Asses.
Blue Mountain Donkey Page, The - Everything you ever wanted to know about donkeys, including their anatomy, diet, and care. With links to clubs and organizations.
British Mule Society - Read about large donkeys and view pictures.
Coat Color Genetics in American Donkeys - An educational article on coat color genetics in donkeys. Pictures.
Cyberdonkey - Explore this compendium of donkey sites for information on caring for the animals, species profiles, and theme merchandise.
Donkey Hygiene - Find out the best way to groom and clean a donkey. Gives pros and cons to clipping excess hair and offers advice on bathing safely.
Donkey Information - Details care advice, choosing a donkey, exercise schedules, and training help. Usefully organized links offer further information.
Donkey Lovers Anonymous - If you are new to this industry, you will find this a good starting place to find donkey information.
Donkeys as Guard Animals - Guidelines for using donkeys as guard animals with sheep.
Donkeys, Gardening and Other Things - Lots of donkey pictures, information and links.
J-Bar Farms Miniature Donkeys - Features pedigrees, prices, and photos. Learn about the breed's origins and read profiles of each animal.
Miniature Donkeys - General information, breeders and organizations.
New European Distressed Donkey Initative - Provides care for rescued donkeys.
Oklahoma State University - Donkey Breeds - Short article on the use of the donkey by humans for everything from carrying firewood to protecting sheep. With images of the various breeds.
Quarter Moon Ranch - Learn the history and recommended care of miniatures. Meet the Christians, check out donkeys for sale, and get the latest news from the ranch.
Stonehill Donkeys - Donkeys for hire to ride, drive, lead or pet. For all occasions - fundraising events or shows. Donkey road shows arranged. Distance no object. Located in the United Kingdom.
The Donkey Lovers Ring Homepage - Instructions on how to join the donkey ring and graphics to download.
World Stud Book Donkey - An online sire directory representing all breeds of donkeys and mammoth jackstock. Features a searchable database, message boards, and links to donkey breeders.
