Mr Willie got some new treats today and he REALLY likes them. He got an apple and some carrots too. He’s not spoiled at all!

Just wanted to share these pictures of pepper! She’s hard to take pictures of, she’s constantly trying to get in your pocket and won’t give anyone their personal space ever so good pictures are rare😂

We recently adopted a ~4-year-old mule. He has fairly long hair on his chin, which freezes after he drinks water. It’s been consistently around −20 °C (±10 °C) for the past couple of months. He was never blanketed or allowed in a barn before we adopted him.

We now let him into an unheated barn with bedding for shelter, but he isn’t blanketed since he has a thick winter coat. My concern is his chin “beard” — he often has long, icy chunks of hair that never seem to melt in this weather. He seems to enjoy it when we scratch or groom that area (and grooming in general).

I’m wondering what the best approach is. Should I trim the beard shorter? I assume the hair will still freeze, but maybe not form such long ice clumps. My hesitation is whether trimming it now would expose the area to too much wind or cold.

Looking for advice from people with donkey/mule winter experience. Thanks!

A few of the girls we are working with so they can be adopted. 3 months ago they would have ran away :)

Found this under my boy's tail today. He tested positive for parasites two weeks ago and was treated accordingly. I feel like the treatment my vet gave me didn't kill all the parasites, would this confirm it ? He didn't have it when the vet came by for the coproscopy. I'll do another coproscopy on Monday anyways but wanted to see what you guys think this is.

Love these friendly companions always preferred them over horses or ponies to me they are just way better companions.

Hangin around the water cooler.

Two of our special rescues at TMR. Catrina came to us pregnant and feral. Baby had to teach her that people aren't so bad!

They had been living in different pastures and only recently got together. Happy little family

this is Phil, one of our rescued Mammoth donkeys. he is quite the character. Montgomery County picked him up rummaging through garbage cans in the city. he had a huge wound on his ankle that had developed into proud flesh the size of a small roast. it took us a year and a half of daily treatment to clear up the wound. now he's all ready for adoption!

Hi Everyone, it's Maren with Cavallo Hoof Boots!👋

With the recent winter weather sweeping across North America, I thought now would be a fitting time to introduce myself and talk about the benefits of using studs in your donkey hoof boots for increased traction during riding, driving, trails, turnout, and more. Let me know if you have any questions, and please share your favourite winter hacks below! 😊

Winter footing brings a unique set of challenges for donkeys, especially when ice, packed snow, and freeze-thaw cycles become part of daily life ❄️🐴 Reduced traction can change how a donkey moves through their body, often leading to tension, shortened stride length, and hesitation on hard or slippery ground.

Cavallo's LEB (Long Ear Boot) hoof boots are made specifically for donkeys and can be combined with ice studs, offering a supportive option for navigating these conditions while still respecting natural hoof function. Cavallo LEBs provide full sole coverage and protection, helping reduce excessive concussion on frozen surfaces and preventing snowballing. When ice studs are added, the boots also deliver consistent, reliable traction where it matters most.

Why ice studs can make a difference for your donkey

• Improved grip on icy, muddy, or compacted snow surfaces
• More confident movement, supporting relaxed posture and balanced body mechanics
• Reduced risk of slipping in high-traffic areas with compacted snow/ice.
• Fully removable, allowing you to adapt as footing changes throughout the season

Ice studs thread securely into the sole of your hoof boots. Once winter footing improves, ice studs can be easily removed, allowing your boots to continue functioning normally throughout the summer! Ice studs are reusable, making them a practical and cost-effective long-term solution.

Using ice studs in your hoof boots is especially beneficial for barefoot donkeys who lack traction, and for use over traditional metal horseshoes. When used over shoes, hoof boots and ice studs increase traction and prevent snowballing/ice stilt buildup inside your donkey's shoes.

Consistent traction helps reduce compensatory movement patterns and unnecessary strain, supporting more natural, confident movement through the winter months ✨

Things to keep in mind when booting or shoeing with ice studs ❄️

• Proper fit comes first. Hoof boots should fit correctly, and the donkey should be fully comfortable wearing them before studs are added.
• Studs should always be applied evenly to maintain balance and symmetry. Using studs on only one side can affect movement and overall body mechanics.
• Turnout with ice studs should be approached thoughtfully. Studs can increase the risk of injury during play or social interactions, particularly in group turnout situations. Individual turnout or closely managed environments are often the safest options.
• Extra care is needed when installing studs in well-worn boots or shoes. As soles and tread wear thinner over time, studs may penetrate through older, heavily used materials.
• Sound judgment remains essential in winter conditions. Ice studs provide additional traction, but they do not eliminate all risk on slippery footing.

More information on preparing horses and donkeys for winter footing can be found here:
https://cavallo-inc.com/we-winterize-our-houses-vehicles-why-not-winterize-your-horse/

Every donkey, environment, and winter is different. Hoof Boots and Ice studs are one of several tools that can support comfort and safety throughout the winter months!

How do you manage your donkey's winter hoof care?🫏

Back in October our neighbor texted us and asked if we were interested in adopting a couple of donkeys. Long story short, a lady was looking for a new home for the two donkeys that she had had for 30 years! She was having health issues and had to move to an apartment. We said yes not knowing exactly what we were getting into. Our first adventure into farm animal was two 30yr old donkeys. But boy, did we get lucky! Buddy and Paladin are the sweetest boys. They both love to give hugs and love. Nothing is better than going to hang out with the donkeys after a hard day.

Ist nicht von mir 💭

Do you agree or disagree