Companion Animals

Horse Working in Developing Countries Welfare

An estimated 200 million horses, donkeys and mules work in developing countries under conditions that often cause chronic pain, overloading and inadequate veterinary care.

Key Facts

The Brooke Global estimates 200 million working equids in developing countries
Common welfare problems include harness sores, overloading, lameness and dental disease
Access to veterinary care is severely limited in many regions where working equids are used
Simple interventions including harness padding, hoof care and body condition monitoring achieve significant welfare improvement
Working equid welfare is directly linked to the livelihoods and food security of millions of families

Welfare Considerations

Working equid welfare in developing countries represents one of the largest and most neglected welfare challenges globally. Practical, community-integrated interventions deliver measurable welfare improvements.

What You Can Do

Donate to Brooke Global or SPANA to support working equid welfare programmes
Avoid riding animals that appear thin, lame or uncomfortable when travelling
Advocate for working animal welfare to be included in international development programmes