Frankie's Big Day

     Good Morning,

    Summer vacation is off to a wet start with so many chores to accomplish in such a short season.  Our yearling donkeys, Frankie and Bing, continue to entertain us with their endearing social interactions.  However, lately their playfulness has begun to show signs of aggression towards each other.  This change in behavior is not surprising considering that both donks are males on their way to sexual maturity.  Unfortunately, for Bing, Frankie got there first.  Since Frank is much larger than Bing it is clear that Frankie's surgery can't wait until the other donkey catches up with him some time this fall.  We were also hoping to wait until the fly season was behind us.  Oh well, if there is one thing that my animals have taught me, it is to remain flexible and open to change.  

     Yesterday, our vet arrived with a summer intern to 'geld' Frankie.  The procedure went perfectly!  Always a consummate professional and compassionate soul, Dr. Nightingale demonstrated once again how highly trained and knowledgeable she is in her chosen field. Whether performing routine surgical procedures, injecting yearly vaccines or bringing lasting peace to an aging pet, it is always a pleasure to have her at Moose River Farm.  

     As for Frankie?  This morning he greeted me with a beautiful soulful song before plunging his muzzle into a pile of hay.  Although a bit sore, he is anxious to reunite with his donkey brother.  Meanwhile, Bing is enjoying a quiet morning on his own with the goats.  In a month or two, it will be his turn to be gelded.  When that time comes Frankie can assure Bing that their aggressive behavior will soon return to playfulness. 

Frankie tries desperately to fight the effects of the sedative.

Bing wonders why his best friend is unable to play at the moment.

Dr. Nightingale prepares her patient for the 'kindest cut'.

Bing gives Frank one more nudge before being removed from the scene.

Dr. Nightingale teaches as she works.  

The procedure requires many steps.

While the front end dozes the vets tend to business at the other end.

It won't be long before the boys....

...can resume their normal activities!