An estimated 40 million donkeys work globally, primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Their welfare is frequently compromised by overloading, poor veterinary care, and inadequate nutrition.
Working donkey welfare is a development and animal welfare intersection. In communities dependent on donkeys for livelihood, animal welfare improvement directly benefits human wellbeing through longer animal lifespan and better productivity. Training programs for owners — teaching correct loading, harnessing, and basic veterinary care — have demonstrated welfare and livelihood benefits in multiple countries. The ejiao trade has created a welfare crisis through unregulated slaughter: welfare standards in slaughter facilities are often absent. Sustainable solutions require integrating donkey welfare into agricultural development programs rather than treating them as separate issues.