WHY USE DONKEYS RATHER THAN HORSES ?

(see also attached extracts from the literature)

The advantages of donkeys over cattle are fairly well known (at least to professionals): weight-for-weight, i.e. if donkeys and cattle were the same size, donkeys eat less than half the total mass of food, about one sixth of the protein, and produce nearly twice as much work, measured in joules.  They are thus very efficient in their use of food, and, what is more, eat a greater variety of the vegetation while eating less of the seeds and young leaves and more roughage.  They do very well on dry grass.

Where the differences between horses and donkeys are concerned, less is scientifically known.  Horses are also efficient converters of food into work, and are impressively strong and fast, but they do require more high quality food.  They also require much more water than donkeys, not having their origin in such dry climates.  Donkeys can do without water for up to 3 days without showing much ill effect, and do not overdrink when they are thirsty.

This much has been researched.  The rest is a matter of observation by those who know both donkey and horses.  In summary, a list can be made:

·         Donkeys are better adapted to hot, dry conditions.

·         Donkeys do not require high protein diets or other special feeding (unless working full time)

·         Donkeys have more stamina

·         Donkeys are more even-tempered

·         Donkeys are more intelligent

·         Donkeys are more agile on rough ground and gradients

·         Donkeys are easier to mount (being smaller as well as less excitable)

·         The backloading of donkeys is easier, since their backs are lower (and as much as a human can lift onto their backs, say 50-100 kg, they can carry for a whole day without strain)

·         Donkeys move more smoothly and evenly (no need to post when trotting, and it is rare to see a donkey gallop)

·         Donkeys are less inclined to compete with each other, and more inclined to work in teams

·         Being smaller and generally interested in humans, donkeys are less intimidating to those inexperienced in handling large animals.

In short, donkeys are workers rather than performers, but are very intelligent about their work.  It has been said that horse may be commanded, but with a donkey it is necessary to negotiate.  Except for dogs, which they only tolerate if they know them, donkeys are careful around smaller and weaker creatures, including human children.  Cats and chickens walk between donkeys’ legs with perfect confidence, and it is even unusual for a donkey to step on a plant unless it is unavoidable.

DONKEY POWER

FACILITATION AND CONSULTANCY

Peta A. Jones, MSc, PhD

P.O. Box 414, LOUIS TRICHARDT 0920, South Africa

+27 cell [0]83 686 7539 tel [0]15 517 7011 fax 7034

e-mail asstute@lantic.net

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