Oboe (red donkey) grieved for seven months after Tuba, his bonded companion, died. We brought Mario and Luca, a bonded pair, to live with Oboe quickly. We watched as they began to push Oboe around the hay. He refused to engage in life and was truly sad, as his grief was so great that he was sad missing Tuba. Finally, after seven months, he started to play with them and push back on the food. He is now happy and whole again. Please understand that donkeys are emotional beings and highly intelligent. Be careful to constantly watch and learn about their unique individual personalities so you can take care of them.
Signs of depression or sickness are standing alone, not engaging with the other donkeys, laying down way too much, and their eyes staring off into the blank world.
Melody Johnson, Donkey Whisperer Farm ®