Find out why a water donkey needed to stay at our veterinary centre in Nouakchott to help his wounds heal.
Usama transports water for his owner, Djibril, in Dar El Beida, a district in Mauritania’s capital city, Nouakchott, which has limited access to clean water. It’s an exhausting task because Usama and Djibril can work for up to 12 hours a day to ensure the people of Dar El Beida have the water they need. Without his five-year-old donkey, Djibril wouldn’t be able to support his family.
Djibril brought Usama to our animal health centre in Nouakchott because Usama’s makeshift harness was rubbing against his skin. This had caused a number of friction wounds that would not heal.
Our team gave Usama a full examination. They cleaned Usama’s infected wounds carefully and administered antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication. The team were concerned that Usama was also weak and malnourished, so he was admitted to the centre’s stables to continue his treatment and ensure he had time to recover fully.
A few days later, Usama was ready to return home. Our team advised Djibril to rest Usama for several weeks. They also discussed ways to improve his diet and how to avoid harness wounds in future – including how to add soft padding.
Djibril said: ‘This donkey is very important to me. Without him, I have no way to work. I’ve been bringing my animals to SPANA for three years now. Every time, they help me with care and patience. I don’t have many resources, but they always treat Usama like he matters.’
It’s thanks to your kind support that the teams at our veterinary centres can help working animals like Usama when they need us. SPANA and our partners run community training sessions to help owners fit and make appropriate and safe harnessing. Our centres are a lifeline for thousands of working animals who need lifesaving and intensive treatment. We also support local community groups to make and sell affordable and durable equipment. Your continued support makes this work possible and is transforming the lives of working animals – thank you!
