Horses, donkeys, and mules provide essential transport and agricultural power for millions of people in developing countries. Their welfare is inseparable from the livelihoods that depend on them.
Working equine welfare in developing countries is a complex intersection of animal suffering and human poverty. Animals that are lame, harness-sore, or malnourished cannot work effectively, directly harming the families that depend on them for income and food production. This creates an economic case for welfare improvement that often resonates more powerfully with owners than moral arguments alone. Mobile veterinary services, community-based animal health workers, and practical training in hoof care, wound management, and harness fitting have demonstrated measurable welfare and livelihood improvements. The challenge is reach: in remote agricultural areas, access to veterinary services may be non-existent, and traditional beliefs about animal care may impede uptake of welfare-improving practices.