Working donkeys in low-income countries carry essential livelihoods but often suffer from overwork, poor nutrition, and inadequate veterinary care.
Working donkeys are essential partners in the livelihoods of millions of people across low-income countries, yet they often receive inadequate care due to poverty, lack of veterinary access, and limited knowledge of donkey-specific needs. Unlike horses, donkeys do not show pain overtly — their stoic demeanor means welfare problems are frequently missed until they become severe. Harness sores from poorly fitting equipment, progressive hoof problems, dental disease that impairs feeding, and working through injury are common welfare challenges that are preventable with basic knowledge and resources. Welfare programs that provide veterinary care alongside education for handlers have demonstrated significant improvements in both donkey welfare and handler livelihoods — healthy donkeys work more effectively, live longer, and generate greater economic returns.