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==Introduction==
==Introduction==
[[Image:Normal donkey foot radiograph.jpg|right|thumb|200px|<small><center>Radiograph of a normal foot (Image courtesy of [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk The Donkey Sanctuary])</center></small>]]
[[Image:Thumb pressure on donkey foot radiograph.jpg|right|thumb|200px|<small><center>Applying thumb pressure (Image courtesy of [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk The Donkey Sanctuary])</center></small>]]
[[Image:Hand-forged shoe.jpg|right|thumb|200px|<small><center>Hand-forged shoe (Image courtesy of [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk The Donkey Sanctuary])</center></small>]][[Image:Plastic glue-on shoe.jpg|right|thumb|200px|<small><center>Plastic glue-on shoe (Image courtesy of [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk The Donkey Sanctuary])</center></small>]]
The natural habitat of donkeys consists of sparse, fibrous vegetation on which they graze, travelling over great distances in semi-desert environment. They live to approximately 10-15 years. In developed countries, they are kept as pets in characteristically damp temperate climates with plenty of rich grazing and little exercise. They often live beyond 30 years of age. Consequently, it is almost inevitable that hoof problems develop under these conditions.
The natural habitat of donkeys consists of sparse, fibrous vegetation on which they graze, travelling over great distances in semi-desert environment. They live to approximately 10-15 years. In developed countries, they are kept as pets in characteristically damp temperate climates with plenty of rich grazing and little exercise. They often live beyond 30 years of age. Consequently, it is almost inevitable that hoof problems develop under these conditions.
==Structure==
==Structure==
Basic structure is similar to other equids, however, there are significant differences.
Basic structure is similar to other equids, however, there are significant differences.
==Routine trimming==
==Routine trimming==
Many donkeys are not used to handling and owners should be encouraged to do that, examine all feet and pick out any debris. However, beware of excessive lifting of arthritic limbs as this may cause discomfort.
Many donkeys are not used to handling and owners should be encouraged to do that, examine all feet and pick out any debris. However, beware of excessive lifting of arthritic limbs as this may cause discomfort.