Lifestyle File

Practical, trustworthy articles for lifestyle farmers. Browse by species, season, or topic. New content added every week.

Feet and foot problems

Learn how to recognise, prevent, and treat common foot problems in livestock, horses, and donkeys. Includes guidance on trimming, foot rot, laminitis, and when to call the vet.

Grazing and drinking behaviour in donkeys

Donkeys have unique grazing habits and water needs. Learn how they manage pasture use, dunging, and hydration, including their ability to go without water for long periods.

Feeding, foot & coat care in donkeys

Donkeys need a high-fibre, low-protein diet to stay healthy. Learn best practices for feeding, foot care, and grooming to avoid common health issues like laminitis and lameness.

Donkeys as guards & Teachers

Donkeys can be effective livestock guardians and patient animal trainers. Learn how donkeys protect herds and teach young animals to lead, and the welfare considerations involved. Keywords:

Social structure & communication in donkeys

Donkeys are very social animals. A lone donkey kept as a pet needs a friend of either another donkey, horse or other animal.

Donkey senses

Discover how donkeys experience the world through their senses. Learn about donkey hearing, smell, sight, taste, and unique movement patterns, and how these differ from horses.