Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Working Welfare Developing Countries

Working equids including horses, donkeys, and mules provide livelihoods for millions of families in developing countries; their welfare is both an animal and human welfare issue.

Key Facts

An estimated 100 million working equids support livelihoods in developing countries
Common welfare problems include overloading, lameness, harness injuries, and inadequate nutrition
Welfare improvements have direct economic benefits through improved productivity and longevity
Organisations including The Brooke and SPANA provide veterinary services and education
Equid welfare is integrated into sustainable development frameworks in some aid programmes

Welfare Considerations

Working equid welfare is inseparable from the livelihoods of millions of people; integrated welfare and livelihood programmes produce the most durable welfare improvements.

What You Can Do

Support The Brooke, SPANA, or similar working equid welfare charities
Raise awareness of working equid welfare as part of international development discussions
Advocate for working equid welfare to be included in sustainable development programmes