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Demand Strong For Rare Mammoth Donkeys
Ron and Suzanne Paddock have been breeding Mammoth Donkeys for 9 years. Demand for the rare breed is strong.
  "For us, it started out as an innocent little project, but it blossomed into a wonderful business which we call Big Ears Donkey Ranch," says Suzanne. "We're the only registered breeders in Manitoba, as far as we know. We started out with only three of them, and right now we have 22 on the place. They're really gaining in popularity because they're such good pets, and there are just so many things that people can do with them."
  Mammoth Donkeys have docile temperaments. They're used for trail riding, skidding firewood, small farm work, as guardian animals to protect cattle, sheep or goats, and simply as companion animals for people and other horses.
  Formally called "American Mammoth Jackstock", the unusual donkey breed was developed at the time of George Washington. Animals were selectively bred for their size and used specifically for breeding to draft horses for farm work.
  Black was the most common color for Mammoths when the breed was developed, but now, all colors exist, according to Paddock.
  The population peaked in the 1920's with an estimated 5 million Mammoth Donkeys worldwide. Today, there are thought to be just 3,000 to 4,000 registered animals in the world. They're on the Rare Breeds list in North America.
  To be registered, Mammoth Donkey jacks must be 56 in. and over, while jennies must be 54 in. and over. They often live for 25 or more years and are generally healthy, hardy animals, but should receive the same vaccinations and de-wormings as a horse.
  When being ridden or driven, they like to go at their own speed and don't like to gallop.
  Because of their natural herd protection instincts, donkeys have a dislike for dogs and other canines, and will attack them with their hooves.
  Prices for Paddock's registered Mammoth Donkeys generally range from $1,500 to $2,500 (Can.) for weanlings and yearlings. So far, they've sold animals to enthusiasts from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and B.C..
  Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Ron and Suzanne Paddock, Big Ears Donkey Ranch, P.O. Box 191, Baldur, Man., Canada R0K 0B0 (ph 204 535-2141; rslizzarta@inethome.ca; www.bigearsdonkeyranch.ca).


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2010 - Volume #34, Issue #6