[Jacob-list] Re:donkeys and sheep? Cool summer and unexpected babies!

[Jgrisner at aol.com]

Hi All,
 
I was reading all your stories about guard donkeys. We are raising mini  
donkeys and Jacobs, as well as pigmy goats, but keep the jack separate. Our  
Jacobs and mini girls share pasture in the summer ( also have 2 llamas in  the 
group)and so far everyone gets along well. Jacks can't be trusted in with  sheep 
or goats, at any time, without being gelded. But not every gelded jack  will 
make a good guard animal. I think it is best if they are started out  together 
as babies and even then you need to keep an eye on them. Our jack was  raised 
with goats, but can't be trusted now that he is of breeding age. We even  watch 
our jenny's, as they sometimes get too rough when playing. It's just a  
matter of common sense.Some even get attached and visit over the fence, when  
separated for the winter.
 
On another note--- We have had two lambs and one pigmy goat born in the  past 
month & a half.  We weren't expecting them for another month! Here  in Kansas 
we had an unusually cool summer. Which must have put the boys in the  mood 
for "Love" a little early! So far everyone is doing well. And we have built  new 
pens to house the amorous fella's, so we can predict birthing time.
 
Always something new to learn!
 
Happy Lambing,
 
Gail