Cheers for the Long-Ears

(Page 5 of 6)

March/April 2007
from Mother Earth News 
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The donkey’s gentle, forbearing nature can be a problem when it comes to illness. Although they can get laminitis and colic, they may not show signs of distress until the disease is well-advanced. It’s important to know your donkey or mule well and watch for even subtle changes in behavior, which might be your only clue that your critter is ill.

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Donkeys and mules need to be dewormed regularly, so check with your veterinarian to set up a schedule. Keep the animals’ area clean and manure-free to reduce the possibility of parasites or disease.

Low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Donkeys and mules need to have their hooves trimmed regularly. Their hooves are shaped differently from horses’ hooves, so you’ll need to make sure your farrier is familiar with their particular hoof configurations.

Though these animals are hardy and don’t need to be stabled, provide them with some shelter from extreme weather. Both donkeys and mules are energetic, hardworking animals, so you must make sure to exercise them regularly.

Far from being ornery, low-class members of the equine family, donkeys and mules are noble animals with a rare combination of a friendly nature, great intelligence and remarkable strength. They continue to win converts, even among longtime horse lovers.

From Mother Earth News

References:

The Professional Handbook of the Donkey compiled by Dr. Elisabeth D. Svendsen
Professional and practical advice on various aspects of donkey care

The Mule by Lorraine Travis
Good primer on mule history and care

Looking After a Donkey by Dorothy Morris
Information on tack, feeding, shelter and general care

The Natural Superiority of Mules edited by John and Sena Hauer
Collection of articles about the hybrid’s qualities and characteristics
Visit Grit Bookshelf

The Mule Companion: Celebrating the Mule by Cynthia Attar
History and facts on mules as well as pearls of wisdom concerning mules

Donkey: The Mystique of Equus Asinus by Michael Tobias and Jane Morrison
Treasury of stories, facts and photographs on donkeys

The books listed above are available in the United States through Amazon.com.

For books

Diamond Farm Book Publishers
Division Yesteryear Toys & Books
P.O. Box 537
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
www.DiamondFarm.com

Magazines

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