WHEN WE THINK OF PETS, OUR minds go to the more traditional ones – dogs and cats. However, there are many, many more animals who love getting ear scratches and treats galore. Hallie Davis and her husband, Landon, have two miniature donkeys, Racer and Larry. “Growing up, my family was always surrounded by a plethora of animals – my favorite being goats. I always wanted a horse of my own to add to the mix. The odds were never quite in my favor for that, so instead my parents bought my sister and me a miniature donkey for my 10th and her 7th birthday present,” said Davis. “His name was Cody and my sister, my friends, and I spent countless hours in the backyard playing with him and riding him around our pond. He was truly the highlight of my childhood.” In 2022, Hallie and Landon moved Cody out to their house – which took every ounce of strength that Landon, Hallie’s husband, and herself had combined to get him into a trailer. Cody adjusted well, but they could tell he was lonely. “After searching for the perfect companion for what seemed like an eternity, we found Larry on Facebook Marketplace. Larry and Cody lived together for a couple of months before we tragically lost Cody the day after Christmas in 2022,” said Davis. “My heart had a donkey-sized hole in it for a long time.” In April 2023, one of Davis’ mentors reached out from Cassidy’s Cause, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide individuals living with disabilities the opportunity to grow and develop through therapeutic, educational, and recreational activities, while interacting with a horse. “One of her miniature donkeys had gotten into a habit of picking on her horse - imagine that, and try not to giggle. She offered to bring him over to meet our sweet, lonely Larry and the rest is history,” said Davis. “Larry and Racer have lived peacefully together at Davis Acres for two years and they are the best pasture buddies.” Davis thinks often the best things in life come when you least expect them, sometimes those things being a donkey. “When we were looking for a companion for Cody, we kept striking out. We found Larry for a whopping $100 on Facebook Marketplace and I’m very grateful we did. When we picked him up, the conditions in which he was living were less than appropriate for what an adult donkey needs,” said Davis. “We deem him our little rescue and are so grateful he came into our lives when he did. He gave Cody the pep back in his step and he continues to be the best buddy for Racer.” The Davis’ integration of Racer into their herd was also unexpected, but again, he’s been one of the best surprises of their lives. “I’ve always known that I’ve wanted to have donkeys, and I think the story of how we acquired each one just adds to the plot,” said Davis. The Davis’ donkeys live the dream - they are well-fed, housed in a pretty red barn, and they spend their days munching on hay and running around their pasture. “Winter can be the most difficult time of year for them. While they’re tough as nails, harsh cold weather can take a toll on them. They live for warm weather and sunshine,” said Davis. The most unique thing about their donkeys is how involved they want to be with their day-to-day lives. Yard Puppies Life with Miniature Donkeys Big 30 APRIL 2025 | INTHEVUE.COM
