Addressing a common misconception, this handbook explains that donkeys are not horses and that the two kinds of animals are genetically and anatomically quite different. Carefully laying out the special physiological and environmental needs of donkeys, the book educates owners, would-be owners, and breeders about how best to care for their charges while also providing clear technical information on donkey anatomy and behavior, diseases, breeding, and general husbandry. Written with affection for donkeys and their antics, the book goes a long way toward preventing common and sometimes dire mistakes in caring for these interesting animals.
The heartwarming tale of an irrepressible donkey who needed a home—and forever changed a family. Rachel Anne Ridge was at the end of her rope. The economy had crashed, taking her formerly thriving business along with it. She had been a successful artist, doing work she loved, but now she felt like a failure. How would her family pay their bills? What would the future hold? If only God would somehow let them know that everything was going to be all right . . . and then Flash the donkey showed up. If there is ever a good time to discover a wounded, frightened, bedraggled donkey standing in your driveway, this wasn’t it. The local sheriff dismissed Flash as “worthless.” But Rachel didn’t believe that, and she couldn’t turn him away. She brought Flash into her struggling family during their darkest hour—and he turned out to be the very thing they needed most. Flash is the true story of their adventures together in learning to love and trust; breaking down whatever fences stood in their way; and finding the strength, confidence, and faith to carry on. Prepare to fall in love with Flash: a quirky, unlikely hero with gigantic ears, a deafening bray, a personality as big as Texas, and a story you’ll never forget.
Strong, intelligent, dependable, friendly, and extremely versatile, donkeys are the perfect farm companion. Whether you use your animal to pull carts, till fields, or protect livestock, you’ll benefit from this practical and inspirational guide to working with and caring for your donkey. Providing expert advice on selecting the right breed for your needs, daily maintenance, training, and first aid, Sue Weaver also includes plenty of fun facts and charming donkey anecdotes. Raise a happy and healthy donkey!
From the bestselling author of Born to Run, a heartwarming story about training a rescue donkey to run one of the most challenging races in America, and, in the process, discovering the life-changing power of the human-animal connection. "A delight, full of heart and hijinks and humor." —John Grogan, author of Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog When Christopher McDougall decided to adopt a donkey in dire straits, he had no idea what he was getting himself into. But with the help of his neighbors, Chris came up with a crazy idea. Burro racing, a unique type of competition in which humans and donkeys run side by side over mountains and through streams, would be exactly the challenge Sherman and Chris needed. In the course of Sherman’s training, Chris would enlist Amish running clubs, high-spirited goats, the service animal community, and two Sarah Palin–loving long-distance female truckers. Sherman’s heartwarming story of overcoming all odds to run one of the most unbelievable races in America shows the healing power of movement and the strength of the human-animal connection.
Uncover the enchanting world of miniature donkeys with "The Complete Guide to Managing Miniature Donkeys." This comprehensive eBook is your ultimate resource for understanding, caring for, and thriving alongside these charming creatures. Whether you're a new owner, a seasoned breeder, or considering starting a petting farm, this guide offers valuable insights and practical advice tailored to meet your needs. Begin your journey with an introduction to the history and allure of miniature donkeys, exploring their origins and the unique reasons they've captured hearts worldwide. Delve into their social structures and behaviors, learning to recognize both common traits and signs of distress, ensuring a happy, harmonious life for your donkeys. Discover essential daily care routines, from grooming to hoof care, and learn to maintain your donkeys' health with expert guidance on vet visits and health monitoring. Tailor their diets with balanced nutrition and tasty treats, preventing deficiencies and promoting long-lasting well-being. Design the ideal habitat for your miniature donkeys, with guidance on creating safe, comfortable shelters and enriching environments that stimulate their curious minds. For those interested in breeding, explore the intricacies of selecting pairs, managing reproductive health, and nurturing foals. Training your miniature donkey is made easy with effective techniques for mastering basic commands and solving behavioral challenges. If you dream of operating a miniature donkey petting farm, detailed chapters on farm layout, visitor safety, and community outreach offer a roadmap to success. Navigate the complexities of legal and ethical considerations, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting animal welfare. Real-life case studies and personal stories provide inspiration and practical lessons from experienced owners. Enhance your knowledge with curated resources, further reading suggestions, and expert contacts. Stay ahead of emerging trends and innovations in miniature donkey management, and embrace the joy and lifelong commitment of sharing your life with these delightful animals. "The Complete Guide to Managing Miniature Donkeys" is your essential companion in creating a joyful, successful experience with your miniature donkey family.
Discusses the pros and cons of owning exotic pets such as armadillos, llamas, monkeys, potbellied pigs, and sugar gliders, and offers advice on their care, feeding, and emotional support.
Donkeys are gaining in popularity across the country. They are used in trail riding, as pets, to guard livestock from coyotes and wild dogs, and as show animals. Donkeys are also used to breed mules, which are a hybrid produced by crossing a male donkey with a female horse. In The Book of Donkey, Donna Campbell Smith will cover the origin and history of donkeys world-wide. She will include chapters on breeds and types, care, housing, breeding, training, and the use of donkeys in the same format as her previous three books with Lyons Press. The Book of Donkeys will stand alone as an introduction to the world of donkeys and donkey keeping.
Whether you want to the make most of a small plot of land or add diversity to a large farm, raising miniature livestock can be a fun and profitable experience. With expert advice on choosing a breed that suits your needs, Sue Weaver shows you how to house, feed, and care for miniature goats, sheep, donkeys, pigs, horses, cattle, and llamas. You’ll be inspired by profiles of successful breeders as you learn everything you need to know to keep your miniature livestock healthy and productive.
