Brown donkey with cart on the side of the road
Brown donkey with cart on the side of the road

About us

who we are

Established in 1923, SPANA’s goal is simple: to improve the welfare of working animals in vulnerable communities across the world. Through three key areas – treating, training and teaching – we’re inspiring others to act in the best interests of working animals while also providing practical, professional and sustainable solutions today. We recognise that the fortunes of working animals and people go hand in hand: in low-income countries, just one working animal can support an extended family of up to 30 people. SPANA’s work improves the lives of working animals while supporting the communities that depend on them. We rely entirely on our loyal supporters to help us in our huge but vital task.

Our
Vision

Our vision is a world where every working animal lives a healthy and valued life.

Our
Mission

Our mission is to transform the welfare of working animals in a world where animals, people and the environment are respected and thrive.

We
Treat
by providing veterinary care and support to working animals in need
We
Train
by building expertise among vets and promoting humane care by animal owners.
We
Teach
children to develop positive beliefs, respect and compassion towards animals.
In
Emergencies
we help in times of crisis

Our History

In 1923, Kate Hosali and her daughter Nina set off for North Africa as tourists; it was a journey that would last a lifetime. As they travelled through the countryside, passing bustling souks, remote communities and rural farms, they were inspired by much of what they saw. But they were also struck by the awful sight of donkeys, mules and camels – malnourished, weak, buckling under the weight of huge loads; suffering with wounds inflicted by poorly fitting harnesses.

Spana in numbers

485k
veterinary treatments provided last year
56
fixed and mobile clinics
23
countries reached last year
10.4k
pieces of humane equipment distributed over the last year
87.2k
schoolchildren taught about animal welfare in the last year

Our Staff

Meet our Chief Executive and directors of the departments that make up the SPANA head office.

Our Work

Discover more about our current projects and where we’re working.

A brown donkey harnessed up and pulling an empty trailer on a road

Our Strategy

Find out more about SPANA’s new strategy for 2023-27.