Under the mistletoe
Nyaba and Nyélé live at the SPANA stables in Bamako, Mali, where they are cared for by our expert team. Thanks to your support, the young donkeys were rescued from the slaughter trade when they were just over a year old. The friendly duo now assist the vet team with animal-handling classes at our education centre, where children are shown how to properly care for and interact with animals. By teaching children the importance of animal welfare, we can build a more compassionate future for working animals. This vital work is only made possible thanks to your kindness.
With your support, our vets have been able to treat so many vulnerable working animals in some of the world’s most impoverished communities. When we asked for your help to care for these animals – whether they were suffering with wounds, deadly tetanus or agonising lameness – the response has been overwhelming. Your kindness means that hardworking donkeys like Nyaba and Nyél have received the free treatment and care they need and deserve.
Message from our Chief Executive
I would like to sincerely thank you for continuing to stand by working animals throughout these particularly difficult times. Despite the challenges and uncertainty many of you have faced in your own lives, it is so heartening that working animals have not been forgotten.
As we approach the end of the year, I am struck by the real difference your support is making to the lives of working animals in the world’s poorest communities. But I am also aware that the challenges faced by working horses, donkeys, mules and camels have never been greater. Many are fighting for their survival at this very moment, as they face malnutrition, disease and abandonment as a result of the global pandemic. And in the longer term, climate change is having an increasingly catastrophic effect on these animals and the communities that depend upon them.
There is so much more work to be done. But with your ongoing support, I am optimistic about how we can develop and grow our work to rise to these complex challenges. It is inspiring to see everything you’ve helped achieve for working animals over the last year. Together, we can ease the suffering of thousands more, while shaping a world that’s more compassionate towards these remarkable creatures.
No matter how you choose to support SPANA – be it with a donation today or by purchasing your presents from our shop – please know that every gift makes a valuable difference to the animals you are helping.
I feel truly honoured to be leading this great charity and I look forward to sharing updates with you on our vital work in the future. For now, I wish you and your loved ones a very happy festive season and all the best for the New Year.
Yours sincerely,
Linda Edwards
Chief Executive
To speak to our friendly supporter care team please visit our contact us page and get in touch.