Pakistan

Pakistan occupies an area that stretches from the Himalayas down to the Arabian Sea.  The Republic has four seasons: a cool, dry winter; a hot, dry spring; a summer rainy season (southwest monsoon period); and a period of retreating monsoon. The length and timing of these seasons vary according to location. Rainfall also varies, from year to year - flooding and drought are not uncommon.

Pakistan, whose main exports are textiles, rice, cotton and leather goods, has a population of 167 million*. According to the 2006 national animal census, the population of horses, donkeys and mules in Pakistan now stands at over 4 million.

These hardworking animals are involved in a variety of work – many transport passengers or large loads, whilst others work in brick kilns and agriculture.

People are depending more on working horses, donkeys and mules because they are seen as a cheap form of transport and are often key in providing them with a livelihood.

Many of Pakistan's poorest communities do not have access to good quality veterinary services for their working horses, mules and donkeys.

Animal welfare problems in Pakistan cannot be improved through vet services alone. A flexible, community-based approach based on a detailed understanding of how economic and social issues affect animal welfare in local communities is also needed. 

In 2009, and continuing in 2010, in addition to our own vet and animal health care teams, we will be:

• giving training support to a further 170 vets
• giving training support to a further 30 community animal health workers (CBAHWs)**
• linking with 30 educational establishments

*   BBC World Service country profile

** community animal health workers (CBAHWs) are members of the local population - often animal owners themselves - who are trained by the Brooke in good animal health and welfare management. They deliver first aid and advice to owners.