Reading today’s trends in donkey breeding , most farms are pushing for small size (nothing over 32 inches!) and a particular favorite color. The ADMS, however, has been very consistent in reminding us always to give conformation first place. This advice goes hand in hand with their strong recommendation to geld any jack that is not breeding quality, or is being sold as a pet or equine companion. Jack foals can be gelded at 4 months of age if both testicles are descended. At this age, the foal experiences less stress because the surgery is simpler, and his dam can comfort him when he has recovered, as he is not yet weaned. Of course, some jacks cannot be fully evaluated at that age, and the decision to geld would be made later – still, any foal with obvious conformational faults, or who is destined to be a pet/companion should be gelded as early as possible. This will prevent undesirable “accidental” breedings, which only diminish the quality of an already small gene pool. Donkey geldings make wonderful pets; show animals, and companions to other equines. Without that very strong drive to breed, they also lead much more peaceful, contented lives.