Rules & Regulations
Rules and Regulations
Is Blackberry Donkeys insured?
Yes. Our donkeys are licensed and insured to be out and about in the community and taking part in donkey assisted activities. Every donkey assisted activity is risk assessed individually, to ensure it is safe and suitable for our donkeys and the public. We provide a risk assessment, a copy of all up to date licenses and public liability insurance documentation, prior to each event
Do Blackberry Donkeys have a licence?
Yes. Blackberry donkeys hold a current 5 star Licence, issued by the Local Authority and their vet. We are inspected under UK animal welfare laws and hold a current 5 star licence, for the highest possible donkey welfare standards. Our yearly inspection not only assesses our donkeys health and welfare, but also the premises in which they live, i.e. Long Ears Donkey Centre, their tack and equipment, stables, grazing and training area, fields, mode of transport, (our waggon and trailer) and disease control precautions, as well as the knowledge and qualifications of the license holder. (Licence No. RE05 and EXH01). As part of this law, random checks are made throughout the licensing period without prior warning.
Do Blackberry Donkeys offer donkey rides?
Very occasionally we may offer donkey rides, for very young children with our standard sized donkeys and in the future, we may be able to offer therapeutic riding to young children with disabilities.
Is there an age limit or weight restriction for riding donkeys in the UK?
Yes there is, but our weight limit is set much lower than the UK requirements. Strictly children 6 years of age and 6 stone in weight or under only may ride our donkeys: donkey welfare is a priority. Our donkeys have been specially chosen for their calm and loving natures and are only required to walk steadily and stand calmly whilst being ridden. This is not a regulation, but one of our own rules.
How are your donkeys led?
Our donkeys are always led by a trained member of the Blackberry Donkeys team. Our donkeys are led using a headcollar and rope. This is a comfortable and safe way to lead them. All headcollars are adjustable to ensure that they fit safely and securely.
How often is the donkeys tack and equipment checked?
Our donkeys tack and equipment are checked on a daily basis prior to every use, as well as on an annual basis by the local authority and their inspecting vet. Checking all equipment prior to use ensures that any signs of wear are spotted and dealt with immediately.
How often do our donkeys take part in a donkey assisted sessions?
Our donkeys generally participate in one or two donkey assisted activities per week, usually for up to 2 hours but it is not unusual for them to have several weeks where they don't participate in any sessions or visits at all. Adequate rest, food and water breaks are always noted in our care plan to ensure that our donkeys have the very best experiences. Our visits and sessions are also weather permitting and from time to time we may need to cancel due to extreme temperatures; our donkeys comfort is always our priority. Sunny days are welcome but we always carry with us a large quality Gala Tent gazebo, to protect us from the elements, should we require it.
Do all donkeys at Long Ears Donkey Centre, take part in donkey assisted activities?
No. Not all of our donkeys take part in sessions or visits for a variety of reasons and our donkeys which do participate, are licensed and carefully matched to any visits or sessions which they take part in. It is vital that any donkeys participating in sessions or visits, feel comfortable doing so. At Long Ears Donkey Centre, our donkeys have access to 19 acres of varied grazing and shrubs, (divided into smaller fields), that enables a variety of environment enrichment choices, which along with activities and toys, ensures that they have ample opportunity to express natural behaviour in a herd, which is important for their mental health and well-being, and happiness. Our donkeys are NEVER sold on or rehomed and live out their natural lives at the centre.
