Costs Involved
If you have a healthy donkey that needs a minimum amount of care probably about $600 a year would cover the expenses. If you have acreage & pasture of course the main expense of hay would be much less or eliminated altogether. Remember, these costs are for a healthy donkey. Many of the donkeys and mules here at the sanctuary are rescued and have ongoing health problems that need to be treated on a continual basis. Some need special feed and many need special medicines to enjoy their lives
Approximate start up expenses are, Price of donkey $$$$
Halter . .$ 15.00
Lead ..... $ 5.00 - $ 15.00
Water bucket ....$ 7.00 for an 18 gallon bucket
Feed trough ..... .$ 7.00 - $ 85.00
Grooming supplies ............. .$ 20.00 (brushes, hoof pick, etc.)
Fly mask . ..$ 15.00
Dewormer ...... . $ 5.00 - $10.00
Salt Block ... . $ 6.00
Muck Bucket ....... . $ 15.00
Manure Rake ..... . .$ 15.00 - $25.00
Bale of Grass Hay .......... ..$ 14.00 100# Arizona bale
Adequate fencing & shelter......varies
Annual expenses:
Feet trimming 3 to 4 times a year .......................... ...$ 25.- $ 45 per trim
Teeth checked by Vet or Equine Dentist, no charge if OK .$ 85 - $ 165 for work
Worming 4 times per year .. $ 20 - $ 40
Annual vaccinations ... $ 20 - $ 40 given by owner
Fly sprays, predators wasps, etc .$ ??
What if your donkey gets sick?
He deserves to have medical care. If you have access to a trailer & can haul him to the Vet it will save you the price of a farm call, plus mileage. Thats to your gate, before any examination or treatment charges.
If you haul to the office & it isnt a regular appointment there will be an emergency charge, plus the office call.
Exam . $ 40 - $ 60
Blood test (CBC) .. $ 125
Fecal Testing ... .. $ 30
Gelding .. $ 250
Surgery ... $ 500 - $ 750 an hour, plus equipment, meds, etc
Euthanasia .. $ 100 - $ 150