Signs of Mistreatment
* Hoof Neglect: a donkey's hooves should be trimmed every 10-12 weeks using the
proper equipment (consult a "ferrier" rather than trying it yourself). If there is a
curvature (upward or downward) to the hoof, this means they are too long. This
makes is difficult and painful for the donkey to walk. Likewise, a donkey's hooves
can be trimmed too short, making it very uncomfortable to support all of their weight.
* Weight: Donkeys grow fat in pockets (a little bit like cellulite). It is all right for a
donkey to have a few "pockets", however, excessive weight is not healthy. Again,
likewise, a donkey should not be malnourished (are the hip bones and shoulders
prominent?). Healthy weights for donkeys are as follows.
Miniature: 200 lbs - 350 lbs
Standard: 400 lbs - 700 lbs
Mammoth: 900 lbs - 1400 lbs
* By eating too many rich grains, a donkey can develop a condition called "founder".
This means that the insides of the legs and hooves are growing in an incorrect and
painful way. If you notice a donkey's gait is stilted, uneven, or very slow, consult a
veterinarian as soon as possible. If you are aware of a problem with the donkey's
legs and do not consult a vet, this is neglect.
* Teeth: A donkey's teeth need regular attention from a veterinarian. They are
continuously growing, and therefore it is easy for them to grow improperly. If a
donkey seems to be favouring one side of his mouth, this could mean there is a
dental issue (teeth should not be left to grow uneven or too sharply - sharp teeth
require "floating" as they can lead to cuts or other mouth discomforts - consult your
veterinarian). It is difficult to tell if there is a problem, so it is a good idea to make
sure your regular vet checkups include the teeth!
* Finally, should you notice abrasions, burn marks, scars or other obvious
indications of physical abuse, please feel free to contact the sanctuary directly and
we can discuss further action.
* Hoof Neglect: a donkey's hooves should be trimmed every 10-12 weeks using the
proper equipment (consult a "ferrier" rather than trying it yourself). If there is a
curvature (upward or downward) to the hoof, this means they are too long. This
makes is difficult and painful for the donkey to walk. Likewise, a donkey's hooves
can be trimmed too short, making it very uncomfortable to support all of their weight.
* Weight: Donkeys grow fat in pockets (a little bit like cellulite). It is all right for a
donkey to have a few "pockets", however, excessive weight is not healthy. Again,
likewise, a donkey should not be malnourished (are the hip bones and shoulders
prominent?). Healthy weights for donkeys are as follows.
Miniature: 200 lbs - 350 lbs
Standard: 400 lbs - 700 lbs
Mammoth: 900 lbs - 1400 lbs
* By eating too many rich grains, a donkey can develop a condition called "founder".
This means that the insides of the legs and hooves are growing in an incorrect and
painful way. If you notice a donkey's gait is stilted, uneven, or very slow, consult a
veterinarian as soon as possible. If you are aware of a problem with the donkey's
legs and do not consult a vet, this is neglect.
* Teeth: A donkey's teeth need regular attention from a veterinarian. They are
continuously growing, and therefore it is easy for them to grow improperly. If a
donkey seems to be favouring one side of his mouth, this could mean there is a
dental issue (teeth should not be left to grow uneven or too sharply - sharp teeth
require "floating" as they can lead to cuts or other mouth discomforts - consult your
veterinarian). It is difficult to tell if there is a problem, so it is a good idea to make
sure your regular vet checkups include the teeth!
* Finally, should you notice abrasions, burn marks, scars or other obvious
indications of physical abuse, please feel free to contact the sanctuary directly and
we can discuss further action.