A deliberate choice rooted in training, temperament, and professional standards.
At The Donkeys of the Heart, we work with donkeys by choice. Donkeys are often underestimated compared with horses, but this is largely the result of misunderstanding.
We believe they should be judged not by appearance or prestige, but by their true qualities.
Why We Work with Donkeys
For years, people have made fun of donkey’s stubbornness, their bad temper, their stupidity, and their big ears.
But donkeys are none of these things (well, they do have big ears).
Donkeys are one of the most intelligent, empathetic, and hard-working domesticated animals we know. They have incredibly high cognitive abilities and are well-known for their gentle nature, their fearlessness, their ability to problem solves, and most importantly, their ability to bond strongly and create meaningful connective relationships with human beings.
“Stubborn, Foolish, Ignorant, Slow, Mean”
All of our donkeys are well trained, and our instruction is based exclusively on classical English riding.
Their education includes riding, long reins, and lunging.
This training creates the reliability, clarity, and safety that a serious program requires.
Highly Trained Partners
Donkeys seek a genuine bond with the child.
They are calm, thoughtful, and not prone to unnecessary spooking.
Their steadiness can create a reassuring environment that supports attention, confidence, and trust.
A Calm and Thoughtful Nature
Boundaries, Respect, and Communication
Donkeys set clear boundaries.
They respond best to fairness, calmness, and consistency.
This helps children learn respect, self-control, and proper communication.
For this reason, the donkey is not only a reassuring partner. It is also an honest teacher.