An estimated 100 million working equines in developing countries face severe welfare challenges. Improving their lives requires community-based approaches that respect livelihoods while reducing suffering.
Working equines in low-income countries exist in a complex welfare context where improving animal wellbeing is inseparable from improving human livelihoods. Animals that are lame, harness-sore, or malnourished cannot work effectively, causing economic loss for families that are already vulnerable. This creates an opening for welfare improvement as an economic benefit rather than a luxury. Effective interventions include simple harness modification using locally available materials, community farriery training, and establishing water access points along working routes. Approaches that engage communities as partners in welfare improvement, rather than imposing external standards, achieve lasting change. Supporting organizations with established community networks is the most effective way for external actors to help.