Over 40 million donkeys worldwide carry heavy loads and provide livelihoods in low-income countries. Their welfare needs are frequently neglected despite their critical economic role.
Donkeys are among the most economically important yet welfare-neglected animals on earth. Their stoic nature — more pronounced even than horses — means that by the time a donkey shows obvious signs of pain or illness, the condition is often severe. Working donkeys in low-income countries carry loads exceeding safe weight limits, work in extreme heat without adequate water, and receive no veterinary care. Harness wounds that are visible and painful go untreated for months. The welfare case for donkeys is inseparable from the economic case — a healthy working donkey is a productive one, and simple interventions (correct harness fitting, regular hoof care, adequate water and rest) dramatically improve both welfare and working capacity.