Ethical Principles of Buying or Selling Miniature Donkeys

Miniature Donkey Buyers Should Expect:

• Animals to be in good physical condition whether to be sold as a pet or as breeding stock.
• To be provided health and breeding history with full disclosure of any pertinent information the owner should be aware of.
• Animals to be behaviorally sound, living within the herd and not weaned earlier than 4 - 6 months of age.
• Registration certificate, signed transfer, and pedigree records current with the registry of choice.
• Any sales guarantees should be spelled out and signed.
• Breeding stock that represent the guidelines outlined in the NMDA's Miniature Mediterranean Donkey Breed Standard.
• Information about the Breed with care, diet and other necessary information provided.
• The newly purchased donkey to be current on vaccinations, worming and hoof trimming. This information should be in writing with dates and types of vaccines.
• A properly fitted halter and lead included in the sale.

Buyers should seek out breeders who adhere to the above principles and thereby demonstrate their responsibilities to both the buyer and the Breed.

Responsibilities

Reputable Miniature Donkey Breeders Have the Responsibility To:

• Breed their Donkeys with the future of the Miniature Donkey gene pool foremost in mind using the guidelines outlined in NMDA's Miniature Mediterranean Donkey Breed Standard.
• Select breeding pairs with the intention of improving the offspring.
• Promote the breed honestly to people who are interested and discourage people from buying on impulse or those who can not adequately provide for them.
• Avoid breeding solely for short-term market fads such as size or color.
• Maintain current health and registry records.
• Be honest in sales and advertising ­ offer animals that are realistically priced reflecting their conformation, sex, age, and health conditions.
• Follow up with buyers to assure that they are satisfied with their animals and that the donkeys are properly cared for.
• Provide proper shelter and diet for their Miniature Donkeys
• Be a responsible breeder.
• Breed jennets only when they are physically and mentally mature-three years and older.
• Breed no smaller than the recommended minimum height (over 30" at the withers) as stated in the NMDA Breed Standard.
• Continue to breed only if there is a market for the offspring and if the animals will make a contribution to the breed.
• Register or transfer all donkeys before they leave your farm.
• Geld the majority of jack foals.
• Be prepared to humanely euthanize donkeys that are old, ill, or unable to be placed in a caring home.

Responsible breeders who base their actions on the ethical principles set out above build solid reputations, serve as role models for future breeders and contribute to the integrity of the Miniature Donkey Breed.