DOGS AND DONKEYS

Donkeys were domesticated 5,000 years ago in East Africa where they shared work with dogs and elephants but canine history is unknown!

Barbara "BJ" Andrews, SAAB
04/01/2025 Update

You know that dogs instinctively protect us humans but it was elephants that assured dogs and donkeys were protected from predators ... and if claims of donkey intelligence are accurate, they probably planned it that way!

To clarify terminology; donkey, ass, or jackass refers to the male, a jenny is a female donkey.

Donkeys are not as intelligent as elephants, as fast as horses nor as protective as dogs but they tame easily and seem to have an affinity for humans. In fact, the little donkey literally “moved” mankind into the modern world. It's in the bible...

In mountainous terrain or primitive jungles, dogs and donkeys are still undisputed as the ultimate multi-taskers. I hear you thinking “horses” but drop the reins and unless taught to be “ground-tied” a horse will graze itself gone whereas the donkey or dog will patiently wait your return.

That is just one reason dogs and donkeys are still in service to humans around the globe. New York sidewalk or Egyptian sand dunes, dogs lead the list of animals serving people, followed by the donkey, horse and camel. Sadly, most other animal helpers have been outdated by automobiles, tractors and therapists.

Speaking of animal therapists… therapy dogs have proved their uncanny abilities in mental and emotional support, followed by horses, cats, bunnies and birds, especially parrots which talk back to us!

So, although no one knows where dogs came from, they hold the title of “first animal to be domesticated” at a time before time was recorded.  That said, archeological studies indicate that dogs were serving humans more than 15,000 years ago, predating athe donkey by 10,000 years. And while we credit the elephant and horse for transporting us best, the dog gets credit for doing so the most willingly.

 And significantly, although the highest marks on animal intelligence are accorded to elephants and monkeys, only dogs choose to serve humans. Can you imagine forcing an elephant to work?Or expecting a monkey to perform without treats?

WHY dogs and donkeys willingly subject themselves to life as ‘beasts of burden’ despite being cruelly treated by humans remains a mystery.

If you have an example of animal loyalty or service to mankind, email the Editor with permission to quote you and/or use your photo.

TheDogPress.com EST 2002 © Jan 2025 https://www.thedogpress.com/editorials/dogs-and-donkeys-b24A102.asp

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