Livestock

Donkey Welfare: Working Animals and the Global Trade

Donkeys are among the most overworked and neglected animals globally, with a growing trade in their hides threatening wild and domestic populations.

Key Facts

An estimated 40-60 million donkeys work in developing countries
Ejiao, a Chinese gelatin medicine made from donkey hides, has created massive demand
Over 4 million donkeys are slaughtered annually for their hides, largely illegally
Working donkeys in low-income countries frequently have open wounds from poor harness fit
The Brooke charity reaches over 2 million working horses, donkeys, and mules annually

Welfare Considerations

Working donkeys in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America carry loads far exceeding safe limits for their body weight, with open sores from ill-fitting harnesses and wounds from whipping. The ejiao trade has led to theft and slaughter of donkeys from communities that depend on them for livelihoods, causing double harm to both animals and people.

What You Can Do

Donate to The Brooke and SPANA for working donkey welfare programs
Avoid purchasing ejiao or products containing donkey-hide gelatin
Support donkey harnessing workshops in development organization programs
Advocate against illegal donkey slaughter supply chains in import regulations
Sponsor a working donkey's veterinary care through Donkey Sanctuary programs