Just like other equines, donkeys need regular dental care to prevent pain and difficulty eating. Because of donkeys stoic nature, they often will not demonstrate symptoms of pain, which means owners must be proactive with dental care.
A new pamphlet from U.K.-based animal welfare charity The Donkey Sanctuary outlines everything a donkey owner needs to know about dental care for their animals. The pamphlet can be downloaded for free from www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/donkeycare
Horse owners sometimes notice dental problems when their horse develops problems wearing a bit. Since many donkeys never wear a bridle, donkey owners must watch for other signs that indicate tooth problems. These are some of the signs outlined by The Donkey Sanctuary.
In many cases, donkeys display no symptoms and may even appear healthy or fat, so regular dental care should always be a component of a donkey’s routine health care regimen. Just like horses, all donkeys should have their teeth checked annually. Young and senior donkeys should be checked twice a year.
For more information on donkey care, visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/donkeycare
Further Reading Avoiding Dental Problems Dental Issues in the Senior Horse
Abigail Boatwright is a freelance writer and photographer based in Texas, and is the editor of Horse Illustrated’s sister publication, Western Life Today.
Glad to see this. Hope it will help lots of donkeys!
Good reminder. Cute photo.
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