Donkeys serve as critical working animals for millions of families globally, yet their welfare needs are poorly understood and frequently neglected. Targeted intervention dramatically improves their lives.
Working donkeys face welfare challenges that are simultaneously urgent and neglected. Harness sores — often untreated for extended periods because the donkey continues working despite pain — cause chronic suffering. Overloading on inadequate nutrition creates musculoskeletal stress. The donkey's stoic nature means owners often don't recognise illness until it is severe. The ejiao trade has created a global crisis, with millions of donkeys slaughtered under unregulated conditions. Effective welfare intervention for working donkeys requires culturally sensitive approaches that recognise the economic dependence of families on these animals, providing both veterinary support and community education that empowers owners to identify and address welfare problems.