In lower-income countries, livestock play complex roles in food security, livelihoods, and cultural identity. Improving animal welfare in these contexts requires approaches that support rather than undermine human wellbeing.
Animal welfare in lower-income countries cannot be separated from human welfare. Livestock kept by smallholder farmers are often the primary financial asset and protein source for families living on minimal incomes. Welfare improvements that reduce productivity or require costly inputs will not be adopted. Effective approaches integrate welfare with health outcomes — treating pain and disease improves both animal wellbeing and farm productivity. Working animals including cattle, donkeys, horses, and camels suffer from overwork, inadequate nutrition, and lack of veterinary access. Organisations providing mobile veterinary services and practical welfare training have demonstrated measurable impact in low-resource settings. Context-appropriate solutions are essential.