Dora's Summer Job

I pasture horses each summer here at Quiet Creek. I love having them around, especially since I sold my saddle horse Annie a few years ago.  I still have a few minis, most notably my mini-donkey named Dora.  She is, as the name implies, a bit of an explorer.  Fences are really only a suggestion and she is more often than not, found wandering in the field around the farm. She never goes far and, thankfully, she's easy to catch.  But every now and again, I have to rely on heavy duty panels to keep her close to home! 

For the most part though,  Dora is pretty content to hang out with her buddies Rosie and Roxy.  They're a lovable little trio! 

The horses I pasture belong to some good friends who own and run Betts Quarter Horses.  Late this spring, they unfortunately lost a mare due to foaling complications and ​were in need of a buddy for the orphaned colt.  Dora was the perfect applicant for the job.  She's very sociable and quite gentle for a donkey.  And just the right size!

At first, neither seemed very impressed with each other.  Or with the whole situation.  They kept a safe distance and stayed in their own corners of the stall.  It didn't take long though for them to get comfortable.  Or for Dora to decide she also liked his pail of milk! 

The happy little pair have been moved outside now and get to enjoy the sunshine and fresh grass.  I popped over for a visit a couple weeks ago and they seem quite content.  I miss my Dora though and look forward to her return to the farm!