www.petjournalmidwest.com
WISCONSIN’S RESOURCE FOR ALL ANIMALS Lakeshore Region
July 2011
Volume 2, Issue 6
FREE
The Joys of Miniature Donkeys by Rick Barton, Pet Journal Staff Writer rbarton@petjournalmidwest.com
In This Issue The Joys of Miniature Donkeys
- front cover
Eco News: Aliens in Wisconsin - page 5
Keep Bunny Hoppy - page 7
Wisconsins Hidden Gems
A Look at Wisconsin Community Zoos
Memominee Park Zoo - page 9
The Walldogs Rock the Cheese Capital - page 9
Seat Belts: Not Just for Humans - page 13
Anxiety in Our Pets Lives - page 14
A Dog will Change your Life... - page 15
When one hears the word donkey, generally the words “small” and “pet” do not come to mind. That is, until you visit the Luv Em All Donkey Farm in Greenbush and meet Susan and Brian Kilton and their four miniature donkeys. There you’ll find that all three words flow together perfectly. The miniature donkeys you’ll meet there are extremely friendly, affectionate, and loveable. If you’re wondering if they make good pets, the answer is an overwhelming yes. Miniature donkeys have sweet, loving, and gentle personalities. Miniature donkeys are social animals and need companionship. If you’re planning a pet miniature in the future, better plan for two. They crave attention and bond easily with everyone they meet. Because of their gentle nature they make great companions for children, the elderly, handicapped persons, and make excellent therapy animals. Miniature donkeys have a curious nature and are eager to learn. They actually learn faster than horses. Though they can be cautious and like to size up a situation before leaping headlong into it. They are small at 36” or less at the withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades). They come in a variety of colors including: gray dun, black, brown, red, silver, spotted (white with gray or brown spots), and roan (any solid color with white hairs intermingled). They have an average lifespan of around 25-45 years and are relatively easy to care for. What do donkeys eat? In the summer the Kiltons feed their donkeys four flakes (a term used to describe a “slice” of a hay bale about 3” thick) of hay a day, vitamin pellets, and a powder on top which helps them grow their beautiful coats. They’re also allowed to graze on the little grass in their corral and are allowed ½ hour in the pasture. Their weight has to be monitored closely to prevent them from getting bulky since it’s difficult for them to lose weight. In the winter, hay is increased to eight flakes a day to supplement the loss of the grass. They love treats like apples, carrots, hard horse peppermint treats, and their favorite fresh beans.
see
Donkeys on page 11.