A Donkey's Life is Cheap

Donkeys are one of the easiest animals to keep.  They are not prone to disease or digestive issues.  If given enough space and the proper terrain, they can keep their hooves in remarkable shape without being trimmed.  They are smaller in body weight than a horse and therefore eat far less.  As a result, many people elect to get donkeys because they are cheap.

What many of these people do not understand is that low-cost does not mean no-cost.  Most of the donkeys that end up here from owners and even other rescues never seem to get any attention at all.  De-worming, Vaccinations, Hoof Trimming, Dental Care are just a few major preventative health issues that are always ignored.  This compounds our problems when dealing with these donkeys as simple issue can grow into major health issues.

Typical Costs for PVDR to rescue and care for a donkey for 12 months:

$100    Transportation
$15        Micro-Chip
$50        Vaccines
$25        De-Worming
$20        Coggins (blood work)
$485      Feed (including hay, labor and equipment)
$65        Hoof Trimming
$160     Castration (Jacks only)

$920    Total 12 month cost to rescue a healthy donkey