Improving the welfare of working equine animals in developing countries

Working equine animals are an essential source of power in agriculture and for urban and peri-urban transport in developing countries. Globally, working animals supply approximately 50% of agricultural power needs. The Brooke is a charity registered in the United Kingdom, which aims to improve the health and welfare of working equine animals in the developing world. To determine the animals' welfare needs, the Brooke, together with the University of Bristol Veterinary School, carried out a survey of the prevalence of welfare conditions, in a sample of 5000 animals, using a welfare assessment protocol based on direct animal observation. The prevalence of physical issues such as lameness, skin pathology and dehydration was recorded together with behavioural observations. Subsequently, apathetic and depressed animals, which were recognised during the assessment, were found to be suffering from dehydration, heat stress and chronic pain. The Brooke is using the results of the survey to direct the assessment of the risks contributing to poor welfare and to develop participatory interventions designed to improve animal welfare.