We all like the experience of freshly laundered sheets, especially if they’ve been on the line. We treat the donkeys in the same way. They are cleaned out when fed at breakfast at 05.30 or so, and they have morning access to the stable, especially needed with the easterly winds this spring.

In the afternoon the stable is shut to air and prior to their evening meal at 17.30 or so, their Aubiose equine bedding is laid down. This is a miscanthus material scented with herbs which absorbs urine, which of course straw doesn’t. Once raked in a very oriental way the stable door is unbolted and they have access. Roll on…