Where did Miniature Donkeys originate? Miniature Donkeys are native to the Mediterranean Islands, Sicily and Sardina.
Is the Miniature Donkey bred down from larger donkeys? No, Miniature Donkeys are a true breed, small and drafty.
What size are Mini Donkeys? Mini Donkeys are 36" and under at the withers (shoulders), weighing 200-400 lbs.
What colors are Miniature Donkeys? The most prevalent color for a Miniature Donkey is gray-dunn which consists of a gray colored body, light colored nose----or dark colored nose, light colored belly and a dark color dorsal strip down the back and over the shoulders (known as the donkeys cross). There are also brown, black, sorrel (red) or spotted donkeys.
What is a Jack? A Jack is an unaltered male donkey of any age.
What is a Jenny or Jennet? A Jenny or Jennet is a female donkey of any age.
What is a foal? A foal is a term for baby donkey of either sex. Foals are generally 18-25 lbs. at birth and stay with their mothers until they are 6 months old.
How long is gestation in a Jennet? Miniature Donkeys carry a foal for 11 months 3 weeks and 5 days on average, but can go 11-12 months.
How do Donkeys talk? Donkeys communicate with their human family and other donkeys by "braying", also known as a hee-haw. Every donkey has their own "voice" with some sounding very funny. The sound ranges from a small hee-haw to a loud thunderous bray.
Do Miniature Donkeys do well living alone? NO! Donkeys are very social, developing strong bonds and should never live a life of solitude. A pair is best, but a horse or pony also works well.
What about health care? Miniature donkeys should be wormed with a dewormer Rx (available at feed stores) several times per year to keep them parasite free. Miniature Donkeys should also be vaccinated annually for Rabies, flu, rhino, encephalities and tetanus.
What do I feed my Miniature Donkey? A mini donkey should have good quality hay, a little grain, mineral and salt block, and fresh, clean water.
What about a shelter? Donkeys need to be able to get in a dry, draft free, well ventilated area as weather conditions demand. They need shelter from harsh Winter weather as well as shade in the heat.
Does a Miniature Donkey need a pasture? Donkeys need exercise, they love to run and play and get sunshine and free air.
How old is a Jennet when she is bred? Miniature Donkey Jennets are generally 3 years old before they are bred.
Would a Miniature Donkey make a good pet for my children? Donkeys generally love children and enjoy all the love that kids bestow on them!
What sex should I get for a pet? Geldings (altered male) and Jennets make the best pets. Geldings of course are not as costly as Jennets to purchase.
What is the life expectancy of a Miniature Donkey? On average 25-40 years.
|
|
|
|
|