With proper conditions it is not rare for a donkey to live to be 35 - 40 years old. A jack is an unaltered male donkey. Both terms apply to a female donkey. A gelding is a castrated jack. A foal is a term for a baby donkey of either sex.
Miniature donkeys are very kind, docile, lovable, hugable, easy going animals.
It is rare that a donkey will kick or bite out of viciousness. Donkeys generally love children and seem to be extra careful and kind with them. Geldings and jennets make the best pets. Geldings of course are not as costly as jennets to purchase. The market is very strong for quality animals.