Donkeys and mules provide vital economic services to millions of people globally but face significant welfare challenges. Targeted interventions achieve dramatic improvements.
Working donkeys and mules in developing countries frequently experience chronic pain from ill-fitting harnesses, untreated wounds, overloading, and dehydration. These animals are often not seen as worthy of veterinary care due to economic constraints and cultural norms. Community-based programmes that provide free veterinary treatment, harness fitting workshops, and owner education achieve sustained welfare improvements that persist beyond initial interventions. Better donkey welfare also improves productivity and owner livelihoods.