Appalachian Farmstead

Appalachian Farmstead is a miniature Mediterranean donkey breeder in Knoxville, TN, serving East Tennessee near Chattanooga.

Dennis and Peggy Vonderfecht oversee daily operations, following guidelines from the American Donkey and Mule Society and conducting annual health screenings for all stock. Their miniature Mediterranean donkeys live on rotated pasture with custom shelters, enriched feeding plans and regular hoof care. Foals are introduced to gentle handling and supervised social interactions from an early age to foster confidence.

Adult animals frequently participate in county fair exhibitions, where they demonstrate calm dispositions and sound confirmation. This family-run farm values temperament as highly as physical traits, aiming to support new and experienced donkey enthusiasts alike. Selective pairing emphasizes health, longevity and structural soundness, reflecting the farm’s thoughtful breeding philosophy. They collaborate with local equine veterinarians and farriers to maintain herd welfare and adaptability across diverse settings.