How to Plow With a Donkey

Prior to the advent of tractors and other mechanized farming implements, farmers relied on donkeys, oxen and horses for performing most farming tasks. Plowing with a donkey can be a preferable alternative to using a tractor, especially for those who want to remain environmentally conscious while getting their field work done. The end result of your work will depend on how well you trained your donkey and the size of the field that needs plowing.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter and reins
  • Breast band
  • Back strap
  • Traces
  • Swingletree
  • Plowing attachment
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Fit the halter over the head of the donkey, so it fits over the ears and nose of the animal. Attach the reins to the halter to guide the donkey.

    • 2

      Place the breast band and back strap on the donkey. Make sure the breast strap is padded to prevent injury to the donkey that can result from excessive rubbing and chaffing while pulling the plow. Use the buckles on the breast band and back strap to adjust each accordingly.

    • 3

      Attach the traces to the buckle rings on the back strap and breast band. Connect the traces to the swingletree bar. Connect the swingletree to the plowing attachment.

    • 4

      Begin the plowing task at one end of the field. Guide the donkey across the field in as straight of a line as possible while making sure the plow is cutting through and turning over the soil. Repeat the process until the entire field is plowed.

    • 5

      Disconnect the plowing attachment from the swingletree and remove the back strap, breast band and halter from the donkey when finished.