Donkeys are working animals for millions of people globally and increasingly popular companion animals in high-income countries, with distinct welfare needs from horses that are often misunderstood.
Donkey welfare spans a global divide: working donkeys in low-income countries experience welfare harm from overloading, inadequate nutrition, untreated disease, and harsh handling; companion donkeys in high-income countries frequently suffer from over-provision of rich pasture, inadequate dental care, and social isolation. Both represent failures of understanding the specific needs of this species. Donkeys are not small horses and cannot be managed as such. Their stoicism, distinctive social needs, and dietary requirements demand species-specific welfare guidance.