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Frequently
Asked Questions
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| Q: |
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What are
miniature donkeys used for?
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Miniature
donkeys were used as beasts of burden in centuries past
but are now raised as affectionate, easy to care for
pets. Because of their dislike of coyote and other
predators, miniature donkeys are often found to be
effective predator control for livestock. Many of our
donkeys keep company with our herd of boer goats,
casting watchful eye and ear over them all. Hence, we
find miniature donkeys to be "Shepherds of herd and
heart."
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| Q: |
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Where
could I keep a miniature donkey?
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Anywhere
out of your neighbor's yard and away from your flower
beds. I recommend a fenced enclosure with access
to a shed during bad weather.
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| Q: |
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What
should I feed a miniature donkey?
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Equus
asinus is a "hard luck" species and does
well grazing on grass and common hay. Alfalfa chips,
carrots, apples etc. are fun treats. Rich grains
may cause them to become fat.
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| Q: |
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Do
donkeys need any special veterinary care?
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| A: |
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No. You
may wish to consult your veterinarian regarding
inoculation from infectious diseases likely to be
encountered. For example, should you show or
parade in proximity to other equines, then I recommend
appropriate inoculations. Our donkeys are clean of
infectious anemia, proven by a veterinarian's Coggins
Test at sale.
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| Q: |
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Do
donkeys always need to be kept in groups so that they
won't get lonely?
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| A: |
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No, but
they are happier with a companion.
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| Q: |
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If I get
more than one donkey, do I need to be careful about
gender?
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If you
insist upon celibacy, yes.
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| Q: |
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Can I
pick out exactly which donkey I'd like to purchase?
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Yes.
Please phone us for an appointment: (361) 375-2824.
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| Q: |
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For what
ages of children are miniature donkeys best?
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Ages 2
through 102. My wife, Jinny, always proclaimed donkeys
were specially designed for grandparents and
grandchildren.
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| Q: |
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How do I
transport a donkey home from the ranch or to the vet?
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| A: |
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Many use
the rear area of their station wagon or SUV with a
donkey diaper. Our donkeys are not toilet trained,
yet. I use a small trailer (and no diaper) with a
4 cylinder compact convertible.
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| Q: |
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Do
donkeys require shoes?
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No.
Their hoofs are tough and will need a trim from time to
time.
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| Q: |
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Are your
Mediterranean Miniature Donkeys stubborn? Are they
fractious?
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No.
Those negative traits in the donkeys you may have known
are a result of feral breeding. In contrast, the
Mediterranean Miniature has been treasured and
selectively bred for centuries. They are naturally
affectionate and will return the love extended to them
manyfold. They will not "break" as with
a horse and choose to follow you as "Alpha
Leader" in a trust relationship. Trust is the
key to their training.
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