Miniature donkeys, as more and more people seem to be finding out, are wonderful pets and companions. Gentle, patient and affectionate they can be a most welcome addition to the farm and the family. Finding that first donkey is sometimes a little challenging; but with a little planning the "great hunt" can be a very satisfying learning experience. Here are a few pointers you may find useful.

First, bear in mind that donkeys are herd animals and must have a companion - another donkey, horse or other appropriate friend. As you plan for shelter and fencing you will want to keep the needs of both animals in mind. From my experience, I do not recommend sheep or goats as an appropriate companion for a donkey.

You will also need to decide if you want a family pet or breeding stock and if your preference is for a male or a female. If your interest is in a pet, a gelding (a neutered male) is often a perfect choice. Geldings are not as spirited as jacks (breeding males) and are most often less expensive than a jennet (female). Jennets, like geldings, are even-tempered and affectionate and also make wonderful pets. (Note: miniature donkeys are not suitable as guard animals. There are many disturbing stories of dogs and coyotes attacking and killing mini donkeys.)

Whether considering a gelding or a jennet, your pet donkey should be healthy and well cared for. If he or she is being offered as a miniature donkey, height at the withers (shoulders) should be no greater than 36 inches. If you are looking for a donkey to drive, the larger miniature may be a consideration. The owner should have a record of vaccinations, worming and farrier care. As with most purchases, it is best to buy from those who are most knowledgeable. These will often be established breeders. Beginners may also find it very useful to request a veterinarian's examination.

If your interest is in breeding stock, be sure to do some research first. A breeding animal is an investment; and you'll want to protect your investment by avoiding impulsive buying. Consider health, general condition, age, conformation and disposition as you make your selection. Some breeders also look for a particular size or color; but if you are just starting out you may have more success finding good quality donkey with conformation your first priority without regard for color. You can always supplement with color later.

Look over your prospective purchase carefully. Pay particular attention to bite, legs, top line, height and gait. A donkey's teeth should come together top and bottom or, perhaps, have a slight over-bite (more than a quarter inch is not acceptable for breeding stock). Excessive over-bite ("parrot-mouth") or under-bite ("monkey-mouth") are considered serious faults. With study and practice, examination of the animal's teeth can also reveal its approximate age. Legs should be straight and the animal should have good width between both front and back legs. (Also be aware, however, that donkeys are generally narrower than horses.) The donkey's top-line (back) should be straight and the gait should reveal no problems with movement.

Buy your breeding stock from known reputable breeders who guarantee their animals. You should look for registered stock with pedigrees, if available. Be sure to ask about worming, vaccination and hoof care programs.

Finding the right animal may very well mean searching beyond the local area. If you are interested in an animal you are not able to see directly, request video. I have found that breeders are often happy to tape their animals, particularly if the buyer will cover the basic cost. Be sure to ask that all sides of the animal be taped. The video should also include the animal coming toward the camera as well as walking away. Ask for a view of the mouth held open to check bite. A yard stick can also be held up to verify size. Finally, also ask that the animal's parents be included on the video if possible.

Whether examining your prospective breeding stock in person or on film bear in mind that an animal can be more easily judged when the coat is shed out - thick winter coats can hide imperfections. Fluffy (and adorable) foal coats can have the same effect. Foals are very hard to resist and certainly can be fun to raise as babies. It is often hard to be objective because they all look so cute; but do bear in mind that it may be difficult to predict adult conformation with a foal. This makes examination of the animal's parents all the more important.

If your purchase is to be a jennet, ask about previous history of foaling and breeding problems, if any. If you purchase a jennet as bred be sure to request confirmation of pregnancy.

A jack should be selected carefully by a person interested in breeding. Remember that a jack is a breeding male and should be respected for his potential strength. Jacks are not suitable solely as pets and can become unpredictable during breeding seasons when their hormones are governing their behavior. When choosing a jack be sure to select the best stock you can find, since he will be the cornerstone of your herd. If possible, select a proven jack and see what he has already produced. Young stock should be checked to be sure both testicles are down in the scrotal sac.

Perhaps most importantly, when shopping for miniature donkeys or any other animal, don't be afraid to ask as many questions as you can come up with and visit several breeders before making any decisions.

For more information about miniature donkeys contact the National Miniature Donkey Association, RD 1, Box 472 Dewey Road, Rome, NY 13440.

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