Approximately 40 million donkeys work globally, predominantly in low and middle income countries. Their welfare is crucial for the livelihoods of millions of families, yet they face severe welfare challenges.
Working donkeys occupy a unique welfare position - their labor is genuinely essential for family livelihoods in communities with few alternatives, yet their welfare is chronically compromised by poverty, lack of knowledge, and cultural attitudes that undervalue their pain and needs. This creates a welfare situation different from companion animal or farmed animal contexts: welfare improvements require meeting owners' economic needs alongside animal welfare improvements. Programs that succeed in improving working donkey welfare provide both veterinary care and alternative livelihood support. The assumption that owners are indifferent to their animals is often wrong - many owners form genuine bonds with their donkeys but lack resources and knowledge for adequate care. Community-based approaches that train local people in equine first aid, harness fitting, and basic nutrition create sustainable welfare improvements.