Working donkeys in low-income countries carry enormous welfare burdens from overwork, inadequate nutrition, and lack of veterinary care.
Working donkey welfare represents both an animal welfare and a human development challenge. Donkeys are often the primary means of transport and agricultural power for families in low-income countries, making their welfare inseparable from family livelihoods. Chronic overloading, inadequate nutrition, wounds from poorly fitted harnesses, and absence of veterinary care are endemic in working donkey populations. Programs that take an integrated approach — providing affordable veterinary services, owner education on body condition and harnessing, and community support networks — achieve welfare improvements that also benefit the families depending on these animals.