Frequently asked questions

Got other questions? Reach out anytime!

Contact info at bottom of page.

Mini Donkeys FAQs

  • Burro is the Spanish word for donkey, and burros and donkeys are actually the same species!

    In the US, the term burro is commonly used when referring to the wild / feral donkeys that roam the western United States after they were originally released during the expansion of the West and Gold Rush eras.

    Mini donkeys are also the same species as both, just a smaller version! Originally from the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, mini donkeys were used for labor for thousands of years in the Mediterranean before finally being brought to the U.S. about 100 years ago.

  • Mini donkeys typically range from 32 to 36 inches tall at the withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades) and 200 to 400lb.

    However, Geronimo, Wolfie, Red Wing, and Ghost Rider are smaller and lighter than the typical mini donkeys, weighing in at just 150 to 250lb! Wolfie is the smallest - at less than 26 inches tall and 150lb, he is roughly the size of a large dog! Red Wing is our largest mini donkey and we estimate his weight at 250lb.

  • Mini donkeys are known for their sweet, calm demeanor, and accessible size. Our mini donkeys in particular are well-socialized, accepting of new people, and remain relaxed even in busy public settings! Their small size also makes them dramatically easier to walk on lead than larger equines.

    Of course, your safety and theirs is our utmost concern, and we will take every precaution necessary to ensure your experience with our mini donkeys is safe and enjoyable.

Donkey Hikes & Visits FAQs

  • We recommend you check the local weather forecast prior to your trip and plan accordingly.

    If hot, dry conditions are expected, please wear light, breathable clothing. For cooler temperatures, layers are recommended.

    Due to the lack of shade on the trail, we highly recommend hats and sunglasses, particularly in the late spring through early fall season.

    Always wear sturdy, well-supported footwear that is comfortable when walking over rocky, uneven terrain.

  • For our guided hikes:

    • You are welcome to bring any of the following items: Backpacks, extra clothing layers, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, beverages, snacks, cameras, and tripods.

    • We will provide the following items for your hike: Water for all hikers, first aid kit, satellite communication device, toilet paper, and headlamp with extra batteries.

    • The following items are prohibited: Firearms and drones.

    You are always welcome to BYO food and beverages to enjoy at our ranch!

  • Yes! Children 2 years of age and older can take part in donkey hikes & ranch visits. All participants less than 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult, and the accompanying adult is responsible for ensuring any children follow our safety guidelines for handling the donkeys.

  • Unfortunately, no. Dogs are not permitted on our ranch visits and donkey hikes, since donkeys see dogs as predators and can injure them if they feel threatened.

    For your dog's safety, we ask that you make other arrangements for them during your visit. Thank you for understanding!

    Note: Service animals are permitted by law.

  • We now have a beautiful custom-built outhouse on site for all visitors to use! Please note this is a rustic facility featuring a compost toilet and handwashing sink with running water.

    While out on the trail hiking, nature is also available. We always carry biodegradable toilet paper, a mini shovel, and hand sanitizing wipes for all hikers.

  • Absolutely! You are welcome to take photos and video with your phone or camera.

    We also offer an optional $40 photoshoot add-on for all experiences (see details upon booking).

  • Yes, our insurance coverage requires that every donkey hike or ranch visit participant signs a release of liability that informs of them of the risks of participating in this activity.

  • You may cancel your booking for any reason up to 48 hours before your scheduled hike or visit for a full refund.

    Since wind and rain can be unpredictable, you’re also welcome to cancel for a full refund at any time in the event of poor weather.

Beer Burros FAQs

  • Beer burro is the name lovingly given to a donkey that carries beers or other refreshments in their saddle baskets to serve at events!

  • We have partnered with our friend and neighbor, Heather, at Beer Burros & Brands to bring Geronimo, Red Wing, and Wolfie to your events!

    To book us, simply go to the Beer Burros & Brands website and submit a request with your information! Heather will then reach out to discuss all the details.

  • Our mini donkeys can be booked as beer burros for a variety of events, including weddings, parties, festivals, proposals, special occasions, corporate events, and business openings!

    We are also available for filming and photoshoots on a discretionary basis (please note that we do not allow our donkeys to be held still in stationary shots, they are most comfortable on the move or freely hanging out in the background of photo and video shoots).

  • Since Geronimo, Red Wing, and Wolfie are smaller than the typical mini donkeys and are limited in the weight they can carry, we ask that they be booked in pairs (Geronimo + Wolfie or Red Wing + Wolfie) or all three together!

  • To ensure the safety and happiness of our mini donkeys, we avoid events that may include extremely loud music, tall flights of stairs (3-4 steps at a time are ok), or unleashed dogs.

    We're happy to discuss the details of your event and let you know as soon as possible if it is likely to be a good fit!

  • The short version is yes! Our donkeys enjoy an active lifestyle full of hiking, travel, and attention from people, of which serving as beer burros at events is just a small part.

    When appearing at events, we are committed to ensuring our donkeys are never exposed to environments or stimulus that they don’t actively enjoy. As their owners and advocates we are present at every single event they attend, and take great care to monitor their body language and interactions to ensure they are fully enjoying the location and experience. Fortunately, donkeys are both very expressive and cautious, and do not willfully participate in activities or enter environments that they are not comfortable in. Rest assured these donkeys are our beloved family members, and you will never find us forcing or pressuring them to participate in anything they are uncomfortable with.