Our aim at SPANA is to improve working animal health by providing expert veterinary care and educating owners and communities on animal welfare and the correct animal care practices. This can all be achieved through proper nutrition, hydration, farriery and preventative care such as vaccinations, while also advocating for improved working conditions through better equipment and practices. By addressing and preventing medical concerns, we can aid the health and welfare of working animals, ensuring they lead healthier and more comfortable lives.
One Health
One of the key influences on SPANA’s work is the One Health approach. This concept recognises the interdependence between animals. people and the environment. Increasing interactions between humans and animals, loss of biodiversity, alteration of ecosystems and the climate crisis are placing working animals and their communities at risk. One Health was developed in response to the spread of zoonotic diseases between animals and humans, and in light of increased awareness of the interdependence between animals, people and the environment. One Health calls for better cross-sector collaboration, research and solution-finding to ensure sustainable progress for human wellbeing and, animal welfare and environmental health.
The United Nations has recently recognised this link between animal welfare, people and the environment marking a significant milestone and the first time animal welfare has received global acknowledgement from the UN.
Major organisations like the World Health Organization and the UN Environmental programme have committed to implementing the One Health approach. They are recognising the importance of treating animals with compassion, respect and understanding that animal welfare both depends on and directly influences people and the environment.
Working Animal Health Resources
Our health resources are designed to provide you with vital information about working animals. Knowing how to spot symptoms early and address them often makes all the difference. The information is backed up by our wonderful SPANA veterinary staff, who have had many years of experience caring for working animals.
What is a Parasite?
Even in the best conditions, animals are susceptible to infections from parasites. Find out what they are and how they can be treated.
What is Tetanus?
Tetanus is a non-contagious bacterial infection that, if left untreated, is usually fatal to animals. The condition is also known as ‘lockjaw’ – since the...
What is fistulous withers?
Read about how SPANA vets work to prevent this chronic problem before it starts.
The Most Common Parasites in Animals
While it’s not always possible to avoid parasites in the first place, being able to reduce the risk of infection, identify types of parasites and...
What is a Parasite?
Even in the best conditions, animals are susceptible to infections from parasites. Find out what they are and how they can be treated.
What is Tetanus?
Tetanus is a non-contagious bacterial infection that, if left untreated, is usually fatal to animals. The condition is also known as ‘lockjaw’ – since the...
What is fistulous withers?
Read about how SPANA vets work to prevent this chronic problem before it starts.
The Most Common Parasites in Animals
While it’s not always possible to avoid parasites in the first place, being able to reduce the risk of infection, identify types of parasites and...
Working Animals SPANA Supports
Working Donkey Care
Our goal is to provide a wealth of information dedicated to maintaining the health and wellbeing of working donkeys.
Working Horse Care
Here, you'll find valuable information and expert advice on working horses to ensure their health, productivity, and wellbeing.
Working Ox Care
Here, you'll find important information on maintaining the health and welfare of working oxen.
Working Camel Care
Working camels remain vital throughout the world, and our mission is to ensure their health and welfare.
Working Mule Care
Our in-depth resources encompass every aspect of working mule care, including nutrition, grooming, preventive health measures, and effective handling techniques.
Working Donkey Care
Our goal is to provide a wealth of information dedicated to maintaining the health and wellbeing of working donkeys.
Working Horse Care
Here, you'll find valuable information and expert advice on working horses to ensure their health, productivity, and wellbeing.
Working Ox Care
Here, you'll find important information on maintaining the health and welfare of working oxen.
Working Camel Care
Working camels remain vital throughout the world, and our mission is to ensure their health and welfare.
Working Mule Care
Our in-depth resources encompass every aspect of working mule care, including nutrition, grooming, preventive health measures, and effective handling techniques.