FAQ's
Where are you based and how far do you travel?
We are based in Hartlepool in the north east of England and work across the north east of England and North Yorkshire.
Do the donkeys enjoy their work/visits?
Yes. Donkeys are working animals and enjoy being busy and having lots of attention and cuddles, from their human companions. It is important for their health and well-being that they have exercise, rest, and the opportunity to play and interact with their donkey companions too. We ensure that our donkeys have access to a variety of enrichment choices, which, along with toys, ensures that our donkeys have ample opportunity to express natural behaviour, which is necessary for their mental and physical well-being.
Are you licensed?
Yes. We are licensed by the local authority and hold 2 licences. We are inspected by a vet and Hartlepool licensing department and have random spot checks from the local authority. Please see our donkey rules and regulations page for more detailed information.
Do you have public liability insurance?
Yes. We are fully insured to attend events. Copies of our insurance documents are sent prior to every event, together with a personalised risk assessment. Please see our donkey rules and regulations page for more information.
Are there any rider restrictions?
Yes. Please see our donkey rules and regulations page.
How often do the donkeys work/attend visits?
Please see our donkey rules and regulations page.
What happens at an event when a donkey has a poo?
We always remove all poo from every event that we attend and take it home with us. When our miniature donkey Teddy or our standard sized donkey Maurice attend indoor events, they wear their 'upsy daisy' bags Teddy and Maurice wear their made to measure lined material 'upsy daisy' bag, to catch their poo. This can be easily emptied by staff, is comfortable for Teddy and Maurice to wear and ensures that floors and carpets are kept as tidy as possible indoors.
Can the donkeys work indoors?
Our standard donkeys Sox, Hobo, Bandit and Joseph do not work indoors, however, Teddy, (our miniature donkey), who stands at around 29inches high, does attend indoor visits, along with our standard sied donkey Maurice. Maurice and Teddy wear their own made to measure 'upsy daisy' bags, that prevents poo from dropping onto the floor indoors. This can be emptied easily by staff and is comfortable for them to wear.
Do you provide free quotes for events?
Yes we do. Please e-mail blackberrydonkeys@gmail.com, contact us on messenger through Facebook, (Blackberry Donkeys Donkey Hire), or call 07899810889.
How can I make a booking?
For more information please e-mail blackberrydonkeys@gmail.com or call 07899810889.
Are the donkeys well trained?
Yes, our donkeys are calm, trained and used to being around children and attending events. They are always monitored by Marie and are always led by trained staff/volunteers, when out and about at events. Donkeys are naturally cautious and not stubborn. With trust and encouragement from their handler, donkeys will deal with most situations. All animals can still be unsure at times but Marie is always on hand to spot potential dangers that may worry the donkeys and give them reassurance, or made a change to their designated area.
Do you provide the staff?
Yes. Only trained volunteers/staff, (donkey drivers), may lead the donkeys.
What do I need to provide if I would like to hire the donkeys?
Please contact Marie to discuss requirements in detail.
What type of events do you attend?
Blackberry donkeys can attend dementia centres, universities, colleges, museums, schools, fairs, fetes, churches, birthday parties, charity, community events and other special events, to provide educational talks, donkey assisted activities, provide rides, conduct meet and greets, or donkey petting, as long as it is safe for the donkeys and public.
Do you complete risk assessments?
Yes. We complete risk assessments prior to every event.
Do riders need to wear helmets?
Helmets are not always needed. When donkey riding on softer surfaces like sand
and grass, riding hats are not required. When events are to be held on harder
surfaces, Blackberry Donkeys provide riding helmets in line with the current
safety standards, (PAS 015).
