How old is my rescue donkey?
Call in your veterinarian. Yes, it is possible to give an estimated age by having a veterinarian look at the donkey’s teeth.
Please remember that a veterinarian should be looking inside the mouth of your donkey, mule, and horse at least once a year. Here on the Donkey Whisperer Farm ®, we have our vet come to the farm twice a year, as we have six donkeys and two horses. Spring shots are given for West Nile, Rabies, and Tetanus. All of our equines have their mouths opened and looked at at least once a year; geriatric equines may need dental care twice a year to prevent colic. Fecal samples are provided to our vet in the spring and fall for worming. Over-worming creates resistant parasites that, in some cases, can never be killed entirely, leaving the equine as a host to infect the entire herd repeatedly.
All equines can suffer from broken teeth, high points, hay stuck in between the teeth and in the gums, and gingivitis. For donkeys, this can be life-threatening, as donkeys hide pain; they are stoic.
Resources:
Veterinary Guidance Equine Teeth
