The Covid-19 crisis is threatening the lives of thousands of vulnerable working animals
The lives of working animals in the world’s poorest communities are currently being devastated by the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Already accustomed to a life of hardship, for nearly a year now they have been fighting for their very survival.
Those living on the poverty line, who have lost their livelihoods overnight, now simply can’t afford to feed – or even keep – their working animals. Many working animals have been abandoned. The rest must struggle on, overworked and starving as never before.
This is why SPANA’s vital work is more important than ever. Without the treatment and care our dedicated vets provide, the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to take the lives of thousands of vulnerable working animals.
Malick’s story
Malick has the essential job of distributing fresh water in drought-stricken Mauritania, where temperatures reach a scorching 50 degrees. He is a lifeline to the local communities he serves and his owner Edah, for whom he is a vital source of income. The Covid-19 crisis was already seriously affecting the local community when Edah noticed a large growth on Malick’s stomach. He knew his trusted donkey needed expert treatment – and fast.
Fortunately, our Nouakchott centre in Mauritania has remained open throughout the pandemic for working animals in need like Malick. Our trained vets carefully examined the donkey and found that he was suffering from a severe hernia – with life-threatening complications. Malick needed urgent surgery.
Our team of dedicated vets set straight to work, putting Malick under general anaesthetic and carefully repairing the hernia sac. Thankfully, the surgery was a success. Malick spent the next week recovering in the SPANA stables before going home, for further rest and recuperation.
Our veterinary centres are seeing an influx of animals like Malick who urgently need medical care now the lockdown restrictions are being lifted. Without expert treatment, this hardworking donkey – and many working animals in desperate need like him – could have died.
Only with your support can we order vital supplies and medicines and feed and treat working animals who have been left fighting for their very survival.
We hope you can join the thousands of SPANA supporters in Australia who want a better world for working animals.
To speak to our friendly supporter care team please visit our contact us page and get in touch.