Working donkeys in hot climates across Africa and Asia are among the most overlooked working animals, facing severe welfare challenges from heat, overloading and lack of veterinary care.
Working donkeys are often invisible in animal welfare discussions dominated by companion animals and farmed species, yet they bear heavy welfare burdens in some of the most challenging environments on earth. Heat stress, inadequate water, overloading and lack of veterinary care combine to cause chronic suffering. The communities that rely on donkeys often have limited resources and knowledge to provide optimal care. Welfare improvements that are practical, affordable and respectful of community contexts can make real differences in these animals' lives.