With predators on the hunt in the Anza Valley, ranch owners do everything they can to protect their livestock and pets. Good fencing, secure shelters and deterrents are necessary. But sometimes the canine hunters still manage to get through and more layers of protection are needed. Guardian animals can help.When selecting an animal to help guard small stock, dogs usually come to mind. Certain breeds have been developed over centuries for just this task.However, some people suggest using donkeys or burros to protect vulnerable animals on the farm.According to Mother Earth News contributor Jan Dohner, donkeys do tend to become territorial although they do not patrol their area like dogs do. They are an especially alert grazing animal with very good hearing and a wider field of vi
