Meet Geoffrey and Dominick: Home Winds’ Resident Donkeys Find a New Home in ‘Agriculture Alley’ 

If you’ve passed through the GSB Upper and Middle School entrance recently, you may have noticed a new addition to the pasture along Bernards Road: Home Winds Farms’ resident donkeys, Geoffrey and Dominick, have relocated to “Agriculture Alley.” This move brings them closer to students and the GSB academic buildings. 

We spoke with Farm Manager Ned Lincoln to learn more about the donkeys and their role in supporting Home Winds Farms’ experiential learning programs. 

Who are the donkeys? 

Geoffrey, a female, is named after the Toys R Us mascot, and Dominick, a male, shares his name with the song “Dominick the Donkey.” At least that’s the story that has been passed down to us. Their exact history is unclear as they’ve been longtime residents of the farm. 

How old are they? 

We estimate they’re in their twenties, though their precise ages and the origin of their names remain a mystery.

How long have they been at Home Winds? 

The donkeys have lived on the farm since before GSB acquired Home Winds in 2015. This has always been their home, and it felt right for them to stay. And so – they were passed along to GSB with the purchase of the farm! 

Why the move? 

The relocation to “Agriculture Alley” is part of an effort to bring farm animals closer to students. The donkeys now join the mobile chicken coop and cattle grazing areas along Bernards Road, enhancing opportunities for interaction and learning. 

Do they like visitors? 

While Geoffrey and Dominick are curious, they’re not particularly friendly. They’ll watch visitors from the fence but don’t typically come over to be petted. 

We do ask that people refrain from feeding them snacks. It may feel fun in the moment, but it doesn’t help their health--especially if lots of people do it.  

What is their role on the farm? 

Originally, the donkeys guarded the sheep from coyotes. With an electrified net fence now protecting the sheep, the donkeys focus on teaching opportunities. 

In animal science class, students learn that donkeys, unlike sheep and cattle, are hindgut fermenters, allowing students to compare different herbivore digestive systems. Their odd-toed hooves differ from the cloven hooves of other farm animals, showcasing hoof diversity. 

As part of veterinary demonstrations, students watch as an equine vet demonstrates teeth floating, where sharp tooth points are ground down to prevent gum irritation. The vet also uses a mobile X-ray to evaluate the donkeys’ hoof health, offering students hands-on insights into animal care. 

Welcome Geoffrey and Dominick to Agriculture Alley. We hope you enjoy the hustle and bustle of your new home!