Amid Growing Threats, Donkey Rescuers Protect The Misunderstood Beasts Of Burden
Donkeys, unfairly, get a bum rap. And global demand for their hides is growing. But a foremost donkey defender, who adopts abused and unwanted donkeys, says the smart, playful animals make great pets.
Donkeys have been loyal beasts of burden for 5,000 years, yet they still don't get a lot of respect.
In the wild, burro herds are a nuisance. In captivity, they can be mistreated. But in recent years, donkey sanctuaries have sprung up across the country. The largest among them is Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, outside of San Angelo, Texas, where the air periodically erupts with the unpeaceable sounds of donkey braying.
Just like its hee-haw, so much about the donkey is speciesspecific. Their temperament — intelligent, cautious and playful — is unique in the equine world. Males and females are called jacks and jennies. And they're widely misunderstood.
