MONTICELLO, Ill. – Miniature donkeys are smart and can be trained to do tricks and maneuver through obstacle courses. Did you also know that they are very social and bond with other horses and livestock? These small creatures with big personalities are farmyard ambassadors, and Piatt County 4-H is offering youth an opportunity to meet two of these extraordinary miniature donkeys, Black Jack and Mabel.
“Kids will likely have an experience like they've never had before,” says 4-H Youth Development Educator Jamie Boas. “Black Jack and Mabel are extremely affectionate, so kids will get hands-on experience with the donkeys.”
Donkey Talk will be from 1 to 2 p.m. on June 8 at Hope Lives Youth Ranch, 976 E. 2250 N. Rd., Monticello, Ill. Youth with meet, greet, and maybe even snuggle with Black Jack and Mabel. They will learn about how donkeys behave differently than horses, how to care for them, and anatomy.
This fun and educational event is free and open to youth ages ten and up. Register by June 6 at go.illinois.edu/donkey. For more information, please contact Kendra Wallace, 4-H youth development coordinator, at kendraw3@illinois.edu or call 217-762-2191.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact 217-762-2191. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.
Source: Kendra Wallace, 4-H Youth Development Coordinator, University of Illinois Extension
Writer: Laura Crider, Marketing and Communications, University of Illinois Extension
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