Assessing donkey health and welfare, and donkey owners' knowledge on donkey welfare in the East Mamprusi Municipal, North-East Region, Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: donkeys are vital assets in low-income communities, offering affordable and resilient labour for transportation and agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. In East Mamprusi Municipality, where donkey rearing and use for labour are prevalent, welfare challenges remain a concern. Methods: this cross-sectional study, conducted from May to September 2024 in East Mamprusi Municipality, Ghana, aimed to assess the health and welfare of working donkeys and owners?? knowledge of donkey welfare practices. Data were collected through direct animal-based observations and structured interviews with 80 donkey owners randomly selected from three communities. Results: of the 80 working donkeys examined, approximately 31% suffered from various wounds, 65% had ectoparasite infestations, 11.3% experienced musculoskeletal issues, and 20% had myiasis. Other observed health concerns included hoof abnormalities (3.8%) and eye problems (2.5%). Among the 80 donkey owners assessed regarding animal welfare, about 50% had no formal education, 63.8% were unaware of animal welfare principles, and 67.5% were unfamiliar with the Five Freedoms. Conclusion: the practice of beating working animals was notably prevalent (33.7%). Moreover, 12.5% of owners did not provide rest for sick or injured donkeys, and 27.5% did not retire their ageing donkeys, further indicating health and welfare challenges. Enhancing owner awareness through veterinary support, mass education, training, and extension services is critical to improving donkey welfare and care in the region.