Pet Talk

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  • Pet Talk
    Pet Talk
  • Pet Talk
    Pet Talk
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Owning any animal can be both challenging and rewarding. Although they have a reputation for being stubborn, donkeys can make great additions to an animal herd. But owners should first understand what it takes to keep them healthy before buying one.

Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says donkeys flourish in dry climates because they are native to the desert environments of Northeast Africa.

“In wet conditions without shelter, donkeys can easily develop rain rot, a bacterial skin infection that leads to scabs and hairless spots; scratches, an inflammatory skin condition that leads to skin breaks on their legs and is caused by a mix of bacteria, fungi, and parasites; and thrush, a bacterial and fungal infection that can cause damage to hooves,” Louge explained.

Because of this, owners should provide donkeys with access to fenced, dry areas without mud that are sheltered from the rain. These areas should also not have grass.

“Fresh grass and highquality hay often have sugar levels that exceed the donkey’s natural ability to process it,” Louge said. “Because the donkey is meant to live in conditions with very little fresh greenery to eat, they are not prepared to take on that much sugar.”

Excessive sugar causes the release of insulin which can increase the risk of metabolic issues. Such issues include equine metabolic syndrome, a disorder characterized by inappropriate insulin levels that can lead to laminitis, a severe and sometimes irreversible lameness. Excess sugar also leads to obesity, which can further increase the risk of equine metabolic syndrome and lameness.

In addition to having a dry habitat and high-fiber, lowsugar diet, donkeys need fresh, clean water — to prevent dehydration and the risk of heat stress — and mineral supplements. Donkeys should also receive routine health checkups, vaccinations, dental work, and hoof trims.

Donkeys also benefit from exercise, regular turnout and training; however, donkeys can be stubborn, which can make these activities difficult. Donkeys tend to be cautious and will stand their ground if they think moving will put them in danger.

Owners can also break down tasks into smaller sections while still rewarding any progress, as this can help the donkey better understand the task and allow them to relax and perform. If a donkey has behavioral issues such as aggression, consulting with a professional trainer or a veterinarian with interests in behavioral management can help provide strategies for reducing negative behaviors.

Before bringing home donkeys, owners should carefully consider a donkey’s physical and behavioral needs in order to help them stay happy and healthy. Then you can be confident in knowing how to appropriately care for your new farm animal.