…patting a donkey is not really viewed as a positive experience by the donkey. Donkeys do not pat each other, and therefore find it difficult to understand what patting means. Patting is very similar to swatting a fly or smacking the animal, therefore it is always best to scratch the animal as a reward for good behaviour.

-The Donkey Sanctuary. “Understanding Donkey Behaviour,” 2006

Ain’t that the truth. The boys love to be scratched.   

Bernard, Ellsworth gets a turn too.

We know how much you enjoy a good scratch…

…however, Ellsworth really does deserve a turn.  

Obviously, you think otherwise.