Are You Snow Ready?

We are in the full throws of winter. Snow has fallen, wind has blown, temperatures have dropped, and ice has formed. How do donkeys manage in the snow and cold? Miniature donkeys come from desert origins so it's actually quite surprising how well they handle the snow and cold. In July and August, our donkeys shed out their coats completely and then almost instantly start growing their winter coats. Their hoof growth tends to slow down as they prepare for the winter ahead.

This is our donkey Ella, all shed out in her summer coat. Below, she is winter ready.

They don't seem to be bothered by snow and will wander outside while the snow is falling, though it is a necessity for them to have adequate shelter if they are to survive in cold and snowy climates.

As for the cold... Our barn is simply metal siding without any insulation. Already this winter we have had -50 temperatures with the wind chill and our donkeys have been fine. They will group together to keep each other warm. We do spread straw and other bedding to help warm the area but this is only during the very extreme cold spells that we get. They seem to handle single digit temps without too big of a problem as long as they do have a protective shelter.

It's also super important that they have a de-icer in their water. Donkeys do not like to drink ice cold water so in order to be sure that they are drinking enough and also to avoid colic, make sure their water is warmed.

If you follow these few tips you'll find that your donkeys can handle the snowy weather just fine!