Donkeys are more intelligent than I am, so training them is tricky.
The first thing about donkeys one needs to understand is that everything has to be their idea (or they have to think it’s their idea), or they won’t do it.
And they won’t do much of anything they don’t want to do; history has taught them to be aware of humans who often endanger and overwork them.
Every morning this time of year, we let them out into one of our three pastures to graze. We rotational graze, so we limit their time in any pasture.
When it’s time for them to leave, we walk out into the pasture, wave our arms, and tell them to go. Sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t.
Maria hit on the idea of rewarding them for leaving the pasture quickly by handing them apple slices or some other favored treat. It works.
When we appear, they walk out of the pasture and then turn and wait for their rewards. We make sure they get it.
We give them their reward and then show them our hands so they can see there is no more. They get it and move on.
Wonderful way of training donkeys.
I must have been a donkey in a previous life! I wish there were some around here that I could visit and commune with! I do horse sit from time to time for my sister in law and her husband; I treasure the time I get to spend nose to nose with their horse. Something about these large and wise animals that fills my soul. Animals are such great therapists.
Jon, I love the photos of Zinnia and Fate covered in dirt and water! It makes me smile to see them. I am reminded of riding on my mountain bike covered with mud, sweat and water splashing thru puddles! Ah that was the life! And bless you for helping out those of us who are struggling…Much appreciation for your generosity of spirit…Bev from Verdi