for the preservation and promotion of the Irish Donkey
ABOUT THE REGISTRY
The Irish Donkey Registry of Australia was officially established on 17th October, 1995. Our registration requirements now accommodate donkeys of both pure and part bred Irish breeding.
The Irish Donkey movement was pioneered in 1972 with the initial importation of three miniature Irish Donkeys from County Clare, Ireland. Since then, Irish donkey breeders have proved successful with a high demand in overseas markets.
ABOUT THE BREED
Typically the donkeys are of drafty build with long furry coats, manes and fringes.
The Registry places no requirements on size.
They are extremely intelligent, curious, have cute looks, and a playful disposition. Given their friendly disposition for which the Irish donkey is renowned and small size, the donkeys make excellent pets and are ideal for young children to ride. Sure-footed and adaptable to climatic changes, the donkeys are excellent travellers. Well known for their strength and striking looks in harness, they have a natural ability to pull carts.
They are also very easy to train.
In panniers Irish donkeys make great accompaniments on shopping trips, family picnics and enjoy parades; they love to work and be useful. Real affection seekers, they love the company of children. Not only have they proved loyal companions to the elderly but also the donkeys have been used in therapeutic work with autistic children and the handicapped.
Holiday resorts have found them to be popular attractions.
Thoroughbred horse breeders have found the donkeys to have a calming influence on highly-strung horses.
Irish donkeys are very much so considered a part of the Irish landscape.
CARE OF THE IRISH DONKEY
Their needs are simple, but if not met you will have a very unhappy donkey. As equines, they require hoof trimming and deworming.
Feeding requirements will vary according to the donkeys own personal condition, the quality and quantity of pasture available.
Irish donkeys take great pride in their grooming.
All donkeys are highly sociable animals and do appreciate company.
Their gestation ranges between 11½ - 13 months. Fillies should not be bred until at least three years of age. Foals are usually weaned between 5-6 months old.
Irish donkeys are wonderful friends and show great loyalty and affection to all who share their lives.
