Hundreds of millions of working horses, donkeys, and mules in low-income countries lack adequate hoof care, causing preventable lameness and suffering that limits both animal welfare and the livelihoods of dependent families.
Working equid hoof welfare in low-income countries intersects animal welfare, family livelihood, and development goals. Lame working animals cause immediate welfare suffering and simultaneously reduce family income and food security. Hoof care intervention programs therefore generate welfare benefit and development impact simultaneously. Key barriers to better hoof care include cost, access to trained farriers, and owner knowledge. Effective programs combine affordable services, community-based training, and owner education to create sustainable local capacity for basic hoof care. International animal welfare organizations with working equid programs have demonstrated strong welfare and development returns.