But it just so happens there is a place — nestled in a property on Matherson Rd, Tongala — where anyone is welcome to do exactly that.
Jacks and jennies (the correct terms for he and she donkeys) have been in Australia since the 1800s and the Goulburn Valley was no exception, with wild mules and donkeys around Barmah State Forest, and the animals are still used today as herd guardians and pets.
But the butts of so many jokes are now considered a pest and because of their long lifespan, domestic donkeys are often released or killed by their owners.
Tongala Donkey Shelter was started in 1997 by May Dodd to help orphaned, abandoned and mistreated donkeys.
Run by May and her right-hand-woman Jess Smeaton, it’s their mission to give these often-misunderstood animals a safe and happy home, as well as show off their many redeeming qualities to visitors.
It costs about $75,000 a year to run and relies purely on donations and fundraising to stay afloat.
Most of their funding comes through their annual open day, which is set for December 6, 2020.
Jess, who has volunteered at the shelter since 2003, said it was a great event to be a part of every year.
“We have guided tours, a petting yard where you can get hands-on with the donkeys and give them a cuddle, donkey paraphernalia for sale, some clothing and a sausage sizzle. It’s just a nice day out,” she said.
Jess said donkeys were unique creatures brimming with personality.
“It’s not until you meet them that you figure them out,” she said.
“People think they’re just a small horse, but they have completely different personalities — more like a dog.
“They love hanging out, playing, they play all the time — they have a good life, we hope they do.
“Most donkeys have a best friend they will mutual groom with, hang out with, they’ll eat with, stand next to and sleep with.
“We’ve got boy and girlfriends, we get mother and daughter and mother and sons.
“Horses have a hierarchy and a boss horse whereas donkeys, we’re all friends and we all hang out together.”
May's privately owned land in Diamond Creek and Tongala is now home to more than 200 donkeys coming from various circumstances.
The 2020 Tongala Donkey Shelter Open Day is set for December 6 from 11am to 3pm.
For inquiries or to book a visit, call 5859 1410 or email donkeyin@tpg.com.au
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