The Miniature Mediterranean Donkey Association

Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys originated in arid areas of the World and can easily become obese in the UK, endangering their health. Rich lush grass must be restricted, especially in spring.

Donkeys utilise food very efficiently and will thrive on (by horse standards) a sparse diet. The best basic food is Barley straw (not wheat and never oat straw) ad lib. Small quantities of hay may be added in winter, however this must be at least six months old, smell sweet, free from mould dust and most importantly, free from poisonous weeds such as ragwort.

Although a donkey is unlikely to eat fresh growing ragwort due to its unpleasant taste, when this weed is dried and mixed in with hay (when harvested) although still very poisonous, it looses the bad taste and will be consumed. Pony nuts, rich horse feeds, grain, proteins and all types of bread and biscuits are quite unsuitable and can be dangerous to a Miniature Mediterranean Donkey.

In very cold weather a small handful of simple pasture mix or quiet mix or Dengie Hi Fi Lite may be given. Females in the last 3 months of pregnancy and growing young stock could also be given similar additional feed. Carrot and apple titbits are very welcome but remember are very fattening! Quantities required are very individually variable and an active stallion will also require an additional feed. We are pleased to offer advice by telephone.

GRASS CLIPPINGS/CUTTINGS
Never under any circumstances feed your donkeys grass cuttings. Tell your neighbours, who might believe they are being kind by dumping their cuttings into your pasture for your donkeys, that grass cuttings can kill your donkeys within three hours.

Miniature donkeys love children and are always making friends		New Foal


Foals playing in the shade		Three Pals

MINIATURE MEDITERRANEAN DONKEY ASSOCIATION
Incorporating THE MINIATURE DONKEY STUD BOOK & REGISTRY OF THE UK