Over 100 million horses, donkeys, and mules work in agriculture, transport, and draft work globally. Their welfare varies enormously and is a significant but often overlooked welfare issue.
Working equid welfare is a global issue affecting hundreds of millions of animals and the communities that depend on them. Chronic welfare problems including harness sores from poorly fitting equipment, lameness from hoof neglect, dental disease, malnutrition, and overwork are endemic in communities lacking veterinary access and animal welfare knowledge. Improving working equid welfare directly improves community livelihoods as healthier animals work more efficiently. International veterinary organizations provide clinical care and owner education programs that demonstrate measurable welfare and livelihood improvements. Addressing working equid welfare is both an animal welfare and international development priority.