Donkeys are becoming more popular with the general public and with owners of other equines. Before you get a donkey, you should be aware of a number of factors involved in owning and caring for a donkey.
Before you think about adding the responsibilities entailed in caring for a donkey to your life, you need to consider whether you have the right facilities, whether you have a suitable companion, and whether you have the resources to look after the donkey over the coming years.
At least half an acre per animal is recommended and the property should be fenced into separate areas to enable one section to be rested while the other area is occupied. This allows for some grazing for the donkey.
You need to consider how you will provide shelter for your donkey. Shelter is not a luxury as all donkeys require shelter from rain, wind and flies. It doesn't matter where you live, some kind of a barn, shed, or at least a lean-to will be necessary to protect your donkey from inclement weather and provide a place where it can safely sleep and rest.
Donkeys need a healthy, balanced diet with good quality forage and grain, if recommended by your veterinarian. Donkeys also require a constant supply of clean, fresh water in well scrubbed containers.
Along with plenty of healthy feed and clean water, you need to have the time to make sure that the area where you keep the donkey, whether in a stall or other facility, is kept clean and that bedding changed frequently and either disposed of or composted.
Donkeys need a companion. The companion can be another donkey, a horse, a goat or another animal that can interact with the donkey on a routine basis.
Become well informed about the characteristics of donkeys before deciding to get one. Uncastrated males - stallions and colts - are not suitable as domestic pets. Mares and geldings make equally good pets, with geldings being rather more outgoing and willing if you wish to ride or drive them or enter competitive events.
Is there a farrier and a veterinary surgeon in the area willing and able to look after your donkey? Donkeys need regular hoof trimming and inoculations against both equine influenza and tetanus. The services of a good veterinarian and farrier are important in maintaining the health of your donkey.
Whether you are purchasing a donkey, getting one from a shelter or from a neighbor in your area, do the necessary research to make sure that the animal you are getting is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations.
A background history can be invaluable in helping you make a good selection since donkeys can live well into their thirties and forties, and like other equines, need daily attention and care.