An estimated 40 million donkeys and mules work in developing countries, often in conditions causing significant welfare harm - targeted interventions improve welfare for some of the most overlooked working animals.
Donkey welfare in developing world contexts requires culturally sensitive approaches that respect the economic dependency of poor households on working animals while improving welfare outcomes. Punitive approaches that remove animals from owners cause more harm than targeted training and equipment improvement. Community-based programs that train owners in pain recognition, appropriate loading and basic veterinary first aid achieve the most sustainable improvements. Harness improvement programs that replace poorly fitting rope and wood equipment with padded, well-fitted alternatives reduce the most common sore sites. Veterinary training for local practitioners extends welfare impact beyond what international organisations can directly deliver.