Information for equine vets
Donkeys are physiologically and pharmacologically different from horses, Knowledge on species specific aspects of anaesthesia and analgesia are very important.
Horse and pony weight tapes do not accurately estimate a donkey’s body weight. Using a set of scales (e.g. travel to a public weigh bridge) is often impractical, but it is very important that we know the weight of the donkey for wormers and drugs.
This GSF Donkey Weight Tape will reduce the margin or error, providing more accurate dosing that will ensure the wellbeing of the animal.
For Working & Riding Donkeys
The average donkey can carry 25% of his own bodyweight which includes his rider and tack, but must take into account the following:-
- His age – he must be over 4 years and not even ridden by children until then.
- A wide set heavy-boned animal with stout legs can carry more than a thin, narrow donkey with spindly legs.
- Donkeys ridden on flat and even terraine such as in an arena, will be able to carry more weight than a donkey riding on hilly, steep countryside.
Ref: The Donkey Companion, Sue Weaver