Donkeys are often neglected animals in this part of the world. Fortunately Malawi's donkeys are not neglected, together with the Donkey Sanctuary UK and Animal Aid Abroad, we have the opportunity to bring change to donkeys lives.
In Malawi donkeys support many households by providing a regular source of income to families who own donkeys. Until this project started, no farmers in Malawi were using the carts and harnesses specifically designed for donkeys to ensure good welfare. Even in the short time since the beginning of this project, we are seeing positive changes- less wounds, correct cart and harness use, better hoof care and recognition of donkeys as sentient beings ( so they feel pain like we do).
The 12 lead farmer donkey owners (representing 36 villages) and the LSPCAs project coordinator visit and monitor 2398 donkeys around Lilongwe and Dedza and deliver veterinary treatment at monthly intervals to 100s more. The improved welfare of donkeys is attributed to their owners. The owners have all been trained to use a diagram called a 'hand tool' (because it is designed to look like a hand to help everyone remember the main welfare issues) to assess and monitor the health and well being of their donkeys. Our donkey clinics puts the donkey at the forefront for veterinary care, one donkey at a time and up to 350 donkeys visiting a clinic on a single day.