STURBRIDGE, Mass. - Alan Curboy started blacksmithing 10 years ago. He never bends or shapes iron alone, because hid biggest critic in watching from the corner. 

"They really are kind of social," said Curboy, the owner of Lucky Nail Blacksmith. "They do enjoy company whether it's me or another animal."

Curboy is talking about his miniature donkey, Moose. For the past 15 years, Moose and Alan have been inseparable. 

"He's more like a best friend," said Curboy. "He lives in this shed and I work in this shed."

Standing at only 34 inches, Moose does almost everything with him. People often take a second look when they drive by the pair in Sturbridge. 

"They think he is a dog at first because they see him from far away," said Curboy. "He's not tall enough to be a horse."

Alan and Moose are out a lot. They go for walks or hikes all the time. 

"He's really good with cars," he said. "Occasionally a storm drain or shadow might scare him." 

What You Need To Know

  • Moose is a 20-year-old miniature donkey
  • His owner Alan takes him on walks and hikes throughout Sturbridge
  • Curboy describes Moose as a low maintence horse who loves Oreos
  • Curboy has owned Moose for 15 years

Curboy grew up with all types of animals, but donkeys always stuck around. 

"I wanted my kids to have some of that responsibility of taking care of an equine," said Curboy. "But, I didn't want the vet bills associated with having a horse."

While some might think a donkey is stubborn, Curboy said Moose is a similar to a low maintenance horse who happens to love Oreos.