Donkeys

Question
Hi Lisa,

I just purchased two donkeys, one jenny - one jack.  Both are 6-7 years old, and generally nice.  I can approach each and pet them usually, but sometimes the jack kicks and is skittish when I walk around him.  I have a 2-1/2 year old daughter that I would like to let ride the donkeys as I lead them. My question is - What are the steps I should take to break the donkeys, and would it be beneficiary to geld the jack to settle him down? I have ample experience with cattle, but not with equines. Any advice to the situation will help.

Thanks a million,

Jared

Answer
Hi Jared,
          The first thing you should do is separate the jack from the jenny. Then you should get him gelded. A jack can injure or/and kill a person. If he has ever bred a jenny or showed signs of being studly then I would sell him and buy a gelding. You do not say if your donkey knows how to lead or not. If she/he does not know how to lead then you need to start with that. You will need a rope halter and a strong cotton lead rope. Make sure your lessons are in little steps so that you nor the donkey do not get over whelmed. Apply pressure to the lead rope until the donkey turns it's head to you. When they turn their head then release the rope and praise them. Do this several times. When your donkey does this easily, then you can move onto the next step.

Now again pull the donkeys head in your direction, while you are standing on it's side. When he shifts weight, then release him and again praise him.

Now you are going to stand on his side again and pull his head until he takes a step. You will want to continue this until he is leading.

Lisa