When it comes to care, donkeys can’t be that much different from horses … right?
Aren't they just horses with long ears? Wrong!
Did you know that donkeys are actually more closely related to zebras than they are to horses? Although they are all equines and do, in fact, have some likeness in their care, donkeys do have some different care requirements. Here are some similarities and differences when it comes to comparing donkey care to horses.
The Similarities
1. Hoof Trimming Just like horses, it is very important for donkeys to receive proper hoof care. Depending on the individual, donkeys should have their hooves trimmed every six to 12 weeks. This will help prevent problems like white line disease, laminitis, joint misalignment, abscesses, immobility and pain from overgrown hooves.
2. Teeth Floating That's right, donkeys also need to have their teeth floated routinely. Due to the grinding motion that equines perform when eating their everyday meals, sharp edges can form on their teeth. This can cause major sores on the inside of their mouths. Uneven teeth can also prevent your donkey from properly chewing, causing him to choke. Other issues that can be affected by poor dental care includes drastically reduce weight, potential behavioral problems and more. When a veterinarian or equine dentist floats teeth, they remove sharp points, correct uneven wear and remove problematic teeth, which helps keep your donkey healthy and happy.
3. Vaccinations Donkeys should receive the same vaccinations as horses. They are susceptible to most of the same diseases as horses. This is a topic that is very important to discuss with your veterinarian, to ensure that your donkey is receiving the vaccinations that are important for where you live.
4. Deworming Once again, yes, they are susceptible to many of the same parasites as horses. Deworming has become a more controversial topic when it comes to how often you should deworm. Make sure to discuss with your veterinarian what the best protocol might be for you and your donkeys. (Word of advice: If you are able to weigh your donkey on a scale, make sure to do so! You might be surprised by how much they actually weigh.)
The Differences
1. Coats/Body Hair Donkeys have a two-layered coat. They can take much longer to shed their winter coat and, once they finally do, it’s almost as if it will immediately start growing back! Although they have a lot of body hair, their coats are quite different from horses’ coats. Unlike horses, donkeys' coats are not water-resistant. They lack the oil that horses have, which allows for water to seep through their coat and go straight to their skin.
While donkeys are known to "not like water," many will still stand in the rain and make you feel bad. It is very important to try to keep them dry in the colder months to prevent hypothermia.
Also, going back to how long it takes for them to shed their winter coat, remember that their coat has a purpose! Many people think that they should body clip their donkeys, but don't forget that donkeys originate from a very harsh, desert environment. When people body clip their donkeys, it can cause sunburns, sores from insects and it takes away their body's natural thermoregulation.
2. Shelter Run-in sheds are very common for donkey owners so they can access shelter while out in a pasture. In environments that experience more weather than others, a shelter with a minimum of three sides is very popular. This helps protect your donkeys from the wind and rain. In harsher conditions, having at least three sides, plus a partial front wall with a "doorway" provides more protection. In the winter months, donkey owners have also started adding strip curtains to the doorways of their shelters to add extra insulation. These are very beneficial.
As we said above, donkey coats are not water-resistant; however, you will often find them standing in the rain. During the times that your area experiences freezing rain, as much as your donkey might not want to be locked up, it is recommended to have a gate on your shelter and keep him sheltered. This will prevent hypothermia, frostbite and more detrimental issues, due to the way that water can seep through their coat right to their skin.
3. Nutrition As stated earlier, donkeys are more closely related to zebras than horses--all donkeys originate from North East Africa. Their bodies are programmed for harsh terrain, which only provides so much for them to eat. Many people want to turn their donkeys out on a large pasture and allow them to constantly graze. (Not having to pay for hay sounds great, right?) What many people do not realize is that allowing donkeys to eat this amazing, lush grass can kill them. Yes, too much grass can be detrimental to horses, too, but donkeys process food much more slowly than horses.
Their bodies can retain much more nutrients within smaller amounts of food, making them more prone to obesity and metabolic issues. Donkeys are able to thrive on approximately 75% of the dietary energy that a horse can. To help keep your donkeys healthy, a proper nutrition plan includes a high-fiber, low-energy and low-sugar diet, which allows for them to mimic their natural, sparse habitat. If you choose to let your donkey be out on pasture, make sure to watch their weight and limit their amount of time of lush grass intake by utilizing a dry lot or grazing muzzles.
4. Handling Fun fact: donkeys are not stubborn! They are thinkers and need to know that they are safe and can trust you before they will do what you ask. Once they do, they will do anything for you. People tend to treat an animal that is scared differently from one that is "stubborn." If you spend time working with your donkeys and build a strong relationship with them, you will be surprised by all that you can accomplish with them.
This will also help when it comes to their care, such as for hoof trims, annual vaccinations and much more.
Make sure to also be their advocate. It can take them a very long time to overcome a bad experience. You are their voice, and it is important to also discuss this with anyone else who will be handling your donkeys.
Overall, there are many similarities between donkeys and horses. For their differences, they aren't all that different… but the little differences are very important to pay attention to. If there is ever a health concern, make sure to contact a veterinarian who is familiar with donkey care.
Be a voice for the breed and continue to spread your love for your long ears!
