The Brooke -

When Saheli arrived at the Shadipura Brooke field clinic in Pakistan, the poor mare was so weak she could barely stand. Though she still struggled to work for her owner, Qurban Ali, she often collapsed painfully to her knees. Soon, she was unable to get up unaided.

Our Brooke vet explained that Saheli was malnourished because she was being fed with a dry fodder that lacked essential nutrients.

With proper nutrition, weak and emaciated animals can become healthy and strong again

Brooke vets show owners how to best care for their animals

Qurban Ali hadn’t realised how important a varied diet and proper nutrition were to ensure that his horse stayed healthy.

Saheli was given multi-vitamin injections, nutritional supplements and fresh green fodder, And she was de-wormed so she could digest better. We also dressed the knee wounds caused by her falls, and gave her anti-tetanus shots to keep her safe from infection.

Saheli grew stronger every day. She gained weight, her coat shone and her eyes lost their dull, listless look.


	I didn't think malnutrition could lead to such a dangerous situation. I am so sorry for not taking proper care of my animal who earns a livelihood for my family. My lack of knowledge might have killed my animal. Qurbal Ali, Saheli's owner

Multi-vitamin injections and nutritional supplements help horses recover quickly

Changing the future - preventive action

We understand that poor owners like Qurban Ali have little money for food and take the time to advise them on how to make the food they buy go further. We also explain the importance of combining three foods, such as barley, maize and bran, with green fodder – particularly leaves with high nutritional value like alfalfa and Lucerne.

Animals should be fed hygenically from a container or feedbag

We show them the benefits of feeding their animals from a container or feedbag, instead of the ground which risks contamination from dirt or worm eggs.

And our community animal health workers and vets develop networks within the community so that information can be passed on to horse and donkey owners far and wide.

Now, Qurban Ali understands what made his mare so feeble he’s going to ensure it never happens again. He’s seen for himself the difference in his horse, and he wants to make sure she stays fit and well.

Innocent animals are starving and suffering

Tens of thousands of horses and donkeys like Saheli are suffering – even dying – because their owners don’t understand the importance of nutrition.

Although owners like Qurban Ali are poor, feeding their animals properly often costs only a little more. By following a few simple procedures, and abandoning a few misguided practices, animal owners can care for their animals correctly – ensuring they stay healthy and active for longer. They can then pass on their knowledge to their children for future generations of horses and donkeys.

Working on an empty stomach - Saheli's story