How SPANA helped Haile the horse on the road to recovery

Haile, meaning ‘power’, is a hardworking horse from Dabat district, in northern Ethiopia. Seven-year-old Haile transports crops and goods to and from local markets so that his owner, Asimro, can earn a living as a farmer. The roads Haile travels are in poor condition and can be steep, uneven, potholed and dusty.

One day, Haile was on the road when a loose stone was kicked up and hit him on his ribcage, close to his front left elbow. The impact of the stone caused a small injury, which Asimro tried to tend to as best he could. However, Haile’s wound would not heal and soon developed into a large, painful abscess. So, a seriously concerned Asimro took Haile to a SPANA mobile veterinary clinic that was visiting their district.

Every day, thousands of working animals like Haile are at risk of injury while travelling on busy and dangerous roads. Some are accidentally hit by vehicles while desperately roaming for food, particularly in drought-stricken areas. Others pull loaded carts along busy roads, putting their lives on the line, especially after dark.

Thanks to your continued support, SPANA vets can provide lifesaving veterinary treatment to injured working animals. We’re also helping their owners recognise the risks associated with road travel and prevent accidents by supplying reflective collars and lights, as well as providing harnessing training and guidance on load carrying. None of this would be possible without your generous support. Thank you.