Care and advice

Donkeys chewing a branch

If you own a donkey and need more knowledge and advice on how to keep them, we can help you.

The Donkey Sanctuary UK has produced the Donkey Care Handbook and a number of factsheets to answer every question in all areas of donkey care, as well as providing training courses for people who are planning to own or to rehome a pair of donkeys.

Information for donkey owners

We have a wide range of information to help donkey owners keep their animals fit and well.

    Care of your donkey

    Feeding

    Management of the environment

    Advice

    Behaviour

    Quality of life and welfare

    Donkey welfare

    To provide the best welfare for your fit, healthy donkeys you need to provide the following:

    • Companionship, high fibre diet, 24 hour access to shelter, restricted grazing, training and daily handling, mental stimulation, environmental enrichment, daily grooming and health checks, regular veterinary care, regular feet care, regular dental care, illness prevention measures, daily stable management, pasture management and individual care
    • Young and elderly donkeys, or those with veterinary conditions, may have additional needs and differing management practices.

    Frequently asked questions

    What should I consider when taking donkeys into care?

    If you have just embarked on a new adventure and welcomed a donkey to your family, it can be very rewarding. However there are several points to consider when taking donkeys into your care.

    Read our essential tips for donkey owners for more information.

    Can I keep donkeys with other animals?

    We are often asked about keeping donkeys with other animals. Domesticated donkeys prefer to form pair bonds with other donkeys. Occasionally a donkey will bond with other species, sharing accommodation and living together safely without incident but owners need to be aware that they cannot rely on this.

    Do donkeys need microchipping and hold a passport?

    It is a legal requirement to ensure that donkeys are microchipped and that donkey owners hold a registered identity passport for each donkey. Therefore, registered passports are required before donkeys are eligible for treatment from our veterinary practice. If you need help with the registering process, please get in touch and ask for assistance, we will be happy to help.

    Contact us

    If you can't find what you are looking for, please contact us.