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VetBooks.ir VETERINARY CARE OF THE DONKEY

ALEX THIEMANN

MA VetMB CertEP MSc AFHEA MRCVS

This chapter by Alex Thiemann MA VetMB CertEP MSc AFHEA MRCVS is included to
highlight some of the differences between horses and donkeys. It is an important aspect of

their welfare that donkeys are not treated as small horses.

Alex Thiemann qualified from Cambridge Veterinary School in 1989. She spent 3 years
in mixed practice, 6 years in equine practice and then joined The Donkey Sanctuary in 1998,

where she is now Senior Veterinary Surgeon. In addition to working in the UK, Alex has
experience of working with donkeys in many parts of the world.

INTRODUCTION

Donkeys have had a close association with horses for a long time, but there are a number of
differences between the two species which it is important to recognize.

In the UK donkeys are kept primarily as companion animals or for pleasure activities
such as showing and driving (Figure 23.1). They are well suited to therapy and work with

special-needs children and adults.

In developing countries donkeys form an important part of the economy (Figure 23.2).
They are better suited to survival in harsher conditions than horses, but being low status
animals they may suffer severe abuse.