Donkeys have distinct physiological and behavioural needs that differ significantly from horses, making species-specific care essential in sanctuary and welfare settings.
Donkeys are not simply small horses, and treating them as such is a common and serious welfare error. Their stoicism means that illness is often advanced before clinical signs become obvious, making experienced, species-literate observation essential. Diet is a particular concern: donkeys evolved on sparse, fibrous grazing and are highly susceptible to obesity-related laminitis when given rich feeds or grazing. Their social bonding is intense and the welfare cost of companion separation is real — sanctuaries and owners should plan to keep bonded pairs together wherever possible. Effective donkey sanctuary management requires staff trained specifically in donkey behaviour and physiology, not just general equine knowledge.