Over 40 million donkeys work in developing countries, often in conditions of severe neglect. Improving their welfare is both an animal welfare and development challenge.
The welfare of working donkeys is inseparable from the livelihoods of the families who depend on them. Common welfare problems include lameness from untreated hoof conditions, wounds from poor harness fit, malnutrition from inadequate feed, and overloading beyond safe carrying capacity. Donkeys hide pain, making welfare assessment require specialist training. Organizations like The Donkey Sanctuary work with communities to improve welfare while respecting economic realities.