It’s time to say “ahhh” and show some pearly whites as the donkeys at Longleat Estate have passed their annual dental check-up with flying colours. The beloved residents of the Wiltshire estate, Sandy, Gwynn, Minstrel, and Bobbin, were treated to their yearly visit from the dentist, ensuring their teeth are in tip-top condition.
Once they reach the grand old age of 20, these donkeys will receive their dental care twice a year, with their trusted vet, Kate Rapley, checking in on their oral health. For now, the four-legged friends only need the once-over annually, and this year’s check-up was a success.
Gemma Short, the lead keeper at Longleat, shared how the donkeys react to their dental visits: “They grin and bear it for Kate, and love her smell, so most of the time they’re quite good for her. However, they do sometimes give her the run-around, and once caught, they can be cheeky and bite down on the tools to prevent her from getting them out.”
Kate’s job is no easy task, as she carefully inspects each donkey’s teeth. Using a dental float, she smooths any sharp edges that could cause discomfort when eating, and she also removes any plaque that has built up over the year. This crucial care ensures that the donkeys can continue to enjoy their meals without any issues in their later years.
After the check-up, the donkeys are given a few hours to rest while the light sedation wears off. Once they’re back to their usual selves, they’re rewarded with a treat of apple or carrot to say “well done.”
As the festive season draws near, it’s certainly good news for these four donkeys, as their dental health is in great shape—meaning no worries about their smiles this Christmas.
