Donkeys Feel Deeply

We have seen donkeys standing off alone, appearing to rest, later to discover they were deathly ill. We have witnessed donkeys scared to death, standing completely still, not moving, riveted in fear. We have observed humans abusing donkeys without running away or fighting back.

On one hand, this attribute of the donkey personality is a plus. They make great trail and pack animals because they are not prone to moods, aggression, or flight behavior. They would rather freeze, think about a situation, and then move forward cautiously. However, this same reflective, stoic behavior can be misunderstood.

Donkeys feel deeply. Donkeys feel the same pain, hurt, betrayal, fear, anger, and depression that all living beings experience. They just respond and react differently. Please know the warning signs of a donkey that could be in physical or emotional distress:

1. They are standing alone outside the herd. Donkeys are not loners. They are herd animals!

2. They are lying down frequently or for long periods. Donkeys rarely roll or thrash about when in pain.

3. They are off food, even for one meal.

4. They are strolling, tenderly, leery of striding out.

5. Their eyes are sullen and depressed, and their ears are down.

6. They have lost interest and enthusiasm for food, you, or their friends/partners.

7. They are frozen and will not move when asked. This can be misunderstood as stubbornness, but it is frequently fear of their environment, circumstance, or mistrust of the person who is leading them or in charge of their welfare.

8. If you notice a human mistreating or abusing a donkey, you will likely see the donkey bear the pain and humiliation. Please intervene if possible!

Please observe your donkey/donkeys every day for any of these signs. Only YOU genuinely know your donkey. Any behavior change should be a red flag!

Thank you!