How To Meet Your Donkey's Needs In The Winter?

So what does your donkey want this winter?
Do they have different needs in the winter, compared to the summer?

Silly question..? Of course all year around our donkeys want love, care and attention. Feet picked out. A cuddle. Some treats. Kind words and company. They're just a few things donkeys love!

But they do have seasonal needs. And there's a role for complementary therapies too to help.

Here are my top 3 tips for keeping my donkeys happy in the winter.

And I hope these are useful for you and your donkeys too:

1. Plenty of clean water. Now you may think keeping your donkey hydrated is an issue in the summer, but not so much in the winter?

Although the grass may seem wet from the rain, it's not the same as a bucket of clean water. Donkeys can get dehydrated in the winter, as much as the summer. You need to make sure water buckets are clean. With autumnal leaves flying off the trees and hedges, it's easy for water buckets to get dirty. Donkeys like clean water.

2. Shelter. In the cooler months of the year, there'll be more wind and rain and donkeys hate standing out in the elements. Well for too long anyway.

So a good field shelter or a good hedge that your donkey can access in the field are useful. Also, let your donkeys have access to a stable too. A stable with clean shavings or thick deep straw. Donkeys love a good roll and sit down. Let your donkey have the freedom to be in the stable or outside, (even if on a yard area). Donkeys love flexibility!

3. Massage. Massaging donkeys? Has your donkey enjoyed a massage lately? If not, then do take an equine massage course for horse-owners. You'll find many day or weekend courses to help you learn the basics to help your donkey.

Now these are usually aimed at horses - but the principles of massaging donkeys is the same. Why bother? Massage helps circulation and relieves tension. When the weather is cooler, then your donkey may stand around more. Muscles then become more tense and the body's not circulating as much.

Please remember that if your donkey is unwell. Or on any kind of medication or other supplement. Then always speak to your Veterinary Surgeon first before using any supplement or therapy. Even natural ones. To avoid any possible issues.

Like help finding a veterinary surgeon or therapist for your donkey?
Please email me at info at taranet . co. uk

And do you know someone who'd find this helpful? Please share, the more we can spread awareness of the benefits of natural therapies the better! :)

Find out more about other natural animal therapies here at Taranet. Or read other articles in this Natural Pet Health Blog. Take a look at the sitemap here to explore!

About the Author

Suzanne Harris is founder of this Taranet website at www.taranet.co.uk, and also provides business coaching to horse and dog care and veterinary professionals.