The Role of Donkeys Worldwide
It is estimated that there are 42 million working donkeys worldwide that are used mainly to transport goods and people, as well as for agriculture.
Many donkeys live in low-income countries and work extremely hard in poor conditions, where food is often scarce for humans, let alone the donkeys, and owners find it hard to provide care and food for their donkeys.
Donkeys in the UK
However, in the UK, donkeys are often kept as pets or companions, with a small community working on beaches, assisted therapy centres, and competing in showing and driving classes.
These donkeys will be protected by UK welfare laws and licensing.
The Hidden Danger of Neglect
Despite this contrast with third-world donkeys, neglect is often the biggest risk factor to UK donkeys, due to management, education, and understanding of how best to look after donkeys.
There is often a correlation with inappropriate nutrition – often resulting in obesity and associated clinical conditions such as laminitis, hoof care, and routine provided.
Understanding Laminitis in Donkeys
Unfortunately, the early signs of laminitis are often missed in donkeys due to their stoic nature.
It is common for donkeys to be diagnosed with chronic laminitis, with no indicators seen by the owner. This means that the prognosis is often very poor.
Causes of Laminitis
There is limited data available on laminitis in donkeys, however, most cases are caused by obesity and an unrestricted diet with many, but not all, connected to metabolic and endocrine issues.
Laminitis in donkeys is also caused by sepsis, endotoxins, and supporting limb issues.
Proper Nutrition for Donkeys
Donkeys can live on minimal fibrous vegetation that is low in digestible energy.
A suitable maintenance diet for a donkey often means restricting access to grass.
A straw-based diet with a suitable balancer or vitamin and mineral supplement designed specifically for a donkey will provide the micronutrients required.
Mollichaff Donkey is a highly palatable, low-energy, high-fibre feed, designed to support the health and well-being of donkeys and mules.
This low-sugar and starch product includes a broad-spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement, so when fed at the recommended amounts, no further supplementation is required other than a good quality low-calorie forage.
Want free nutritional advice?
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Give us a call at 01803 527274 or send an email to sales@horsehage.co.uk
