Mules and donkeys used for pack work in mountainous and remote terrain face welfare challenges from overloading, rough terrain, and inadequate care.
Pack mules and donkeys in working conditions often suffer from overloading that causes musculoskeletal strain and injury. Poorly fitted pack saddles cause pressure sores. Inadequate hoof trimming leads to chronic lameness. Water deprivation during long work days causes dangerous dehydration. In many regions these animals are vital economic assets but receive little veterinary care, creating a cycle of chronic pain and reduced productivity. Welfare improvement is both ethical and economically rational.