Frequently Asked Questions about Miniature Donkeys at Ass-Pirin Acres Miniature Donkey Farm in Addison, Vermont

Are burros donkeys?
Yes, burro is the Spanish name for Ass. Donkey is the English word for Ass. Ass is the proper name, but most people use the term donkey or burro.

Where did miniature donkeys come from?
Miniature donkeys are native to the Mediterranean islands, Sicily and Sardinia.

Were miniature donkeys larger donkeys bred down?
No. The miniature donkey is a true breed, and are small and drafty.

How tall can miniature donkeys be?
Miniature donkeys are 36" and under at the wither.

What is a wither?
The wither is the top of the shoulder, about where the cross is.

What colors are miniature donkeys?
The most common color is gray/dun. Other colors are browns, black, spotted, white and sorrel.

How long does a miniature donkey live?
With proper conditions it is not rare for a donkey to live to be 35 - 40 years old.

What is a jack?
A jack is an unaltered male donkey.

What is a jenny or jennet?
Both terms apply to a female donkey.

What is a gelding?
A gelding is a castrated jack.

What is a foal?
A foal is a term for a baby donkey of either sex.

Do donkeys bite and kick?
Miniature donkeys are very kind, docile, lovable, hugable, easy going animals. It is rare that a donkey will kick or bite out of viciousness.

Would a miniature donkey make a good pet for my children?
Donkeys generally love children and seem to be extra careful and kind with them.

What sex should I get for a pet?
Geldings and jennets make the best pets. Geldings of course are not as costly as jennets to purchase.

How is the donkey market?
The market is very strong for quality animals. There are two markets, the show and breed market and the pet market.

Can donkeys be trained?
Miniature donkeys are easily trained to pull a cart, pack, show, and small children can ride them as well.

Can I have just one?

No! Donkeys are very social, develop strong bonds and should never live a life of solitude. A pair is best, but a horse or pony my also work well.

Do Donkeys wear shoes?
Donkeys have very strong hooves, and do not need shoes, but must have their fast growing hooves trimmed about every 6 - 8 weeks.

What is worming?
Donkeys need to be given a dewormer every 6 - 8 weeks to keep parasite free. Parasites can cause some serious health problems.

Do donkeys need shots?
Donkeys should be vaccinated yearly or as often as indicated for Rabies, flu, Rhino, encephalitis and tetanus. Foals get a series of shots and then begin on the yearly schedule. Some areas require other vaccines in addition to the above.

How often and what feed is recommended?
A donkey should have a good, clean, quality hay, grain, mineral salt, and fresh, clean water at least twice daily.

How much do they eat?
Amounts are determined be the individual. Generally 2 - 3 flakes of hay, 1 - 2 cups of low protein grain and free choice of fresh water and salt.

Does a donkey need a barn?
Donkeys need to be able to get in a dry, draft free, well ventilated area as weather conditions demand. They need shelter from the wind, rain, snow in the winter and sun and flies in the summer.

Does a donkey need a pasture?
Donkeys need to get exercise, be able to play and run, and get sunshine and fresh air.

How old is a jennet when she is bred?
Jennets should be three years old before they are bred.

Why three years old?
Donkeys mature slowly and are not full grown until close to four years of age.

You really love what you are doing, don't you?
YES! I cannot imagine life without them! They truly are the most affectionate, addicting animal of their kind. Like potato chips, one is hardly enough!