Family ass-et

By Monique Ebrington
DON’T tell Rosie House or her stepdaughter Ruby Hatten that, while two’s company, three’s a crowd.
This year they have welcomed three donkey foals into their growing family.
Healesville Primary School teacher Ms House decided to get her first donkey five years ago and says she was always interested in the donkey’s place in history.
“They’re very friendly and loyal. They’re just like overgrown dogs,” Ms House said.
Ms House is currently in the process of breaking in three of her four adult Irish Donkeys so children can ride them.
She would also like them to be able one day to carry packs along the Bicentennial National Trail.
While you won’t see many other donkeys around Healesville, Ms House says they are a popular animal, particularly with young children, thanks to the Dreamworks movie Shrek.
While they have never bred donkeys before, being able to watch the births was a great experience for 19-year-old Ruby who has recently been accepted into a Veterinary Science course in Wagga Wagga.
While her heart lies more with horses, she says it was interesting watching the births.
“It was pretty cool. I didn’t have to step in and help. They rarely need any help,” Ruby said.