Clinical Evaluation and Preventative Care in Donkeys

Elena Barrio; Karen J Rickards; Alexandra K Thiemann

doi:10.1016/j.cveq.2019.08.013

Clinical Evaluation and Preventative Care in Donkeys

Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2019 Dec;35(3):545-560. doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2019.08.013.

Authors

Elena Barrio¹, Karen J Rickards¹, Alexandra K Thiemann²

Affiliations

¹ The Veterinary Department, The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 0NU, UK; The Veterinary Hospital, Brookfield, Honiton, Devon EX14 9SU, UK.
² The Veterinary Hospital, Brookfield, Honiton, Devon EX14 9SU, UK; Education, The Veterinary Department, The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 0NU, UK. Electronic address: alex.thiemann@thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk.

PMID: 31672202
DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2019.08.013

Abstract

Clinical evaluation and preventative care in donkeys should follow similar guidelines as for horses. There are species-specific differences due to the desert-adapted physiology of the donkey. Donkeys are mainly used as pack animals, companions and for production of meat or milk - they may be kept well into old age. Diseases often present late or may go unrecognized leading to poor welfare and quality of life. Basic knowledge of nutrition, blood values, pharmacology and common disease recognition will help veterinarians improve the health and welfare of donkeys.

Keywords: Behavior; Dentistry; Donkey clinical examination; Farriery; Preventative care; Quality of life; Vaccination.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Animals
Equidae*
Horse Diseases / diagnosis*
Horse Diseases / prevention & control*
Horses
Quality of Life
Vaccination / veterinary
Veterinary Medicine / methods