Looking after a donkey would probably top the list of all the things I know next to nothing about. I've had to learn fast as one has recently taken up residence in the field. Worming schedules, preventing laminitis, filing feet, salt licks and protein percentages are all relatively easy to comprehend compared to actually catching the beast. He watched intently as I struggled to erect a sturdy shelter in the pouring rain. The dry stable and a tasty bucket of nuts failed to convince the donkey that I was friendly and keep his back leg from lashing out when approached. I tied a long rope to a corner post, pulled it taut and attempted to shepherd the donkey into an ever decreasing space; when cornered the donkey simply dropped its head below the rope and trotted free or used strength and speed to wrest the rope from my hands. Sugar lumps and kind words seem to work better than tests of ingenuity or strength and the kids proved to be much better in this respect than I. In a confined area of the field I simply followed the donkey about with a bucket of treats until eventually he was tempted to come closer; this took quite a while at which point I left the donkey to enjoy the treats and wonder what all the fuss was about. Hopefully this won't take so long next time and eventually he should no longer fear being approached. Once caught donkeys enjoy a walk along the lane ways and the one at the side of the house running on up into the mountains is apparently perfect for keeping hooves in good condition. Expect to see a donkey pacing along the skyline in the coming months, that's when he's not amassing a fortune ferrying children up and down the beach, enriching the vegetable garden, keeping down the grass or hauling stones, posts and seaweed. All this and more will have to wait however until he decides to let me catch him.
If you are interested in a painting you can contact Eamonn by ringing 07962 189132