Farm Animals

Working Donkeys in Ethiopia

Working donkeys in Ethiopia support millions of rural livelihoods while facing endemic welfare challenges.

Key Facts

Ethiopia has approximately 8 million working donkeys among the largest populations globally
Harness wounds hoof cracks and overwork are endemic in the working donkey population
Brooke Ethiopia provides mobile veterinary services across highland communities
Welfare improvement directly improves donkey productivity and owner livelihoods

Welfare Considerations

Ethiopia has approximately 8 million working donkeys that support the daily water and firewood carrying needs of rural families. Welfare problems including harness wounds, hoof cracks, and overwork are endemic. The Brooke organization and Ethiopian Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provide mobile veterinary services and education. Welfare improvement directly improves donkey productivity providing greater economic benefit to dependent families.

What You Can Do

Support Brooke Ethiopia programs providing mobile veterinary services
Donate to organizations improving working donkey welfare in East Africa
Advocate for working animal welfare in international development funding
Engage with the livelihood dimension of working animal welfare in Ethiopia