BEULAH LAND HEALTH & INFO

MINIATURE DONKEY HEALTH & INFORMATION

Miniature donkeys are gentle, loving little animals. When people visit Beulah Land and are taken into the pasture, they find themselves surrounded by wonderful little creatures wanting to be loved.

Miniature donkeys are easy keepers. It’s not necessary to feed sweet feed to donkeys but they do enjoy it. The important thing to remember is to do it in moderation. ¼ cup of sweet feed (10% protein) daily per adult donkey is ample. Donkeys are prone to become overweight easily.

We provide white salt, trace mineral, sulfur and selenium supplements. Donkeys know what they need, when they need it. One thing they absolutely need is clean fresh water daily. Unlike some animals, donkeys will not drink dirty water. We keep our water tubs inside the barn which helps keep it cool and clean. Donkeys should be provided shelter from heat as well as cold. They need at least a three-sided structure with enough room for them to move around. Experience has taught me they head for the barn when the first drop of rain hits their noses.

Our donkeys are vaccinated with a 5-way vaccination and we have a worming schedule that includes using Ivermecten, Safeguard, and Strongid. Every donkey that leaves our farm has a worming schedule in their packet but we advise new owners consult their vet to be sure worming and vaccination needs are met for their area. Hooves need to be trimmed every 8-12 weeks. Owners need to check the hooves to make sure they are not cracked, split or too long. Hooves that are not properly trimmed and cared for can cause a donkey extreme pain.

Our foals are weaned between 4-6 months. Each is evaluated individually and handled daily. A donkey leaves our farm only if it is healthy and has a negative Coggins. Some new owners get extremely anxious for them to go home. Parents of babies under contract are welcome to visit any time and we e-mail updates and pictures.

Donkeys live from 25 to 40 years and weigh between 250 to 450 pounds. The most common color is gray-dun. Other colors include spotted, sorrel, various shades of brown and black (with or without light points). Donkeys are herd animals and most adults will have a buddy. We do not separate donkey buddies, as it is very stressful and upsetting. Donkeys will buddy up with other equine and have been known to become best buds with a cow or two but they seem to be happiest with their own kind.

We hope this information will be useful to you.

Should you have additional questions please feel free to contact us.