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New Dr. Arrival!

Please Welcome Dr. Tamera Kramer!

Dr. Tamera Kramer earned her undergraduate degree in equine science and then graduated from CSU’s Veterinary School of Medicine in May of 2021. She is a Colorado native and pet mom to “Piper”, a Russian blue cat, and “Mochi”, a black lab. Tamera is passionate about preventative healthcare, responsible breeding strategies, and small animal surgical care. She enjoys fishing, keeping up on the latest movie releases, and spending time with her family and pets. Many clients may recognize Dr. Kramer as she worked at Arvada Flats Veterinary Hospital throughout her schooling. Tamera wanted to mention that her family has trusted Arvada Flats with their pets’ care since she was a child.

We are thrilled to be bringing Tamera back to Arvada Flats and know she’ll be a great addition to our pet care team.

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Arvada Flats Veterinary Hospital

303-467-9212

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Donkeys, Horses & Mules

  • Created in Choosing Your Pet, Livestock, Choosing Your Pet, Livestock, Donkeys, Horses & Mules

donkey and mule

There are many benefits to owning a donkey, horse, or mule. However, it is important to know that these animals (all belonging to the sub-family called equus) require special housing, feeding, and care for a healthy life. Here are a few important considerations to make before bringing a new animal home.

Housing and Sheltering

The size of the animal determines how large of a stall you’ll need to keep it in. For one normal-sized animal, you’ll want something around 12-foot by 12-foot square or larger. Ponies and some miniature horses can be kept in areas as small as 10-foot by 10-foot. And draft horses or other large breeds require up to 16-foot by 16-foot stalls.

You’ll also need some sort of shelter from the elements. This can be a simple three-sided shed with a cover or a stall that is both indoors and outdoors. If you plan on keeping your horse, donkey, or mule in a pasture, make sure they still have some sort of cover from the rain and summer sunshine.

Feeding

In general, most donkeys, horses, or mules eat about twenty pounds of food a day. They also need access to around eight gallons of water. If you’re keeping your horse in a barn, you’ll want to provide them with a clean water trough or automatic water source. Those in a pasture should have access to a much larger trough or tank, due to potential evaporation. Plus, they’ll need plenty of hay and pellets or grain twice a day.

Other Tips to Know About Owning a Horse, Donkey, or Mule

Besides basic food, water, and shelter, these animals have numerous other care requirements. Their hooves grow quickly, so you’ll need to have a local farrier come out and trim or shoe them every six to eight weeks.

Horses, donkeys, and mules also need annual or bi-annual veterinary care and regular vaccinations. Additionally, they need to be protected against parasites and other worms that can cause significant health conditions.

Finally, your new donkey, horse, or mule needs exercise on a regular basis. You won’t always be available for rides, so having a place to roam like a pasture or paddock is important. Groundwork or the so-called act of putting them through their paces through physical activity should be done at least a couple times per week.

Wrap Up: Basic Care

Owning one or all of these animals is exciting. However, you want to ensure you’re giving them the healthiest and happiest lifestyle by keeping these important tips in mind.

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Arvada Flats Veterinary Hospital

Monday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

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Every other Saturday 8:00am-1:00pm

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Closed

Saturday's we will be open

May 6th and 20th

June 3rd and 17th

July 1st, 15th and 29th

August 12th and 26th

September 9th and 23rd

October 7th and 21st

November 4th and 18th

December 2nd, 16th and 30th

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