| Q. |
What
is the life span of a miniature donkey? |
| A. |
If
given the correct care and attention, a miniature
donkey can live for up to 50 years – so consider
them a friend for life! |
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|
| Q. |
Can
a miniature donkey live on its own? |
| A. |
No,
definitely not! A miniature donkey will pine without
company, and should be kept with other donkeys/equine.
The ideal is 2+ miniatures...... |
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|
| Q. |
How
much land do I need to keep a pair of miniature donkeys? |
| A. |
An
acre of land, with a sturdy field shelter should be
sufficient. Unlike horses, donkeys do not have water
proof coats so need somewhere to shelter from the
rain, and in the summer months the shelter will give
them shade from the sun and those pesky flies! |
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|
| Q. |
What
do miniature donkeys eat? |
| A. |
Miniature
donkeys are ‘good-doers’, and should not
be over fed. For most of the year grass should be
sufficient but during the springtime you may need
to strip graze your paddock to ensure your donkeys
don’t over -indulge on lush grass, and become
overweight which in turn can lead to serious health
problems such as laminitis. In the winter months if
the grass is poor it may be necessary to feed a small
amount of good quality barley straw and hay. At all
times fresh clean water and a good quality mineral/salt
lick should be made available. Pregnant and lactating
jennys may need some additional hard feed. |
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|
| Q. |
What
other care do miniature donkeys need? |
| A. |
Flu
and Tetanus vaccinations should be given on an annual
basis. Feet trimming and worming should be carried
out on a regular basis. Teeth should be checked
by a qualified vet at least once every couple of
years. Above all, love your donkeys, spend time
getting to know them and you will reap the rewards! |
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|
| Q. |
Can
I keep a Jack as a pet? |
| A. |
In
our opinion no! Responsible breeders will not sell
a jack to an inexperienced donkey owner or as a
pet. Geldings and Jennys are undoubtedly more suitable
as pets. |
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|
| Q. |
Where
can I buy miniature donkeys and how much do they
cost?
|
| A. |
You
are very welcome to visit our stud by prior appointment;
we have foals for sale throughout the year. A weanling
gelding will cost around £1500 and a weanling
jenny will cost around £2200. Be prepared
to pay more for breeding age stock and that of show
quality. Buying a miniature donkey is not only a
financial commitment its also a long term commitment,
so before taking the plunge visit several reputable
breeders who will be more than happy to give good
sound advice and will never put pressure on to make
a sale! Ensure the donkey is registered with the
relevant breed society and that it has a good pedigree.
The Miniature Mediterranean Donkey Association (MMDA)
will also offer help and advice on where and how
to purchase your donkey. |