Heal broken hearts appeal
Find out how we’re working with communities to heal broken hearts and improve animal welfare for working horses, donkeys and mules around the world.
Thousands of donkeys, mules and horses work in traditional brick kilns and coal mines around the world. They are notoriously largely hidden industries, often unorganised and unregulated, where animals and humans endure the harshest working conditions with limited, if any, legal protection and rights. Together, we can heal their pain – for good.
Harekrishna, donkey owner
Harekrishna, a donkey owner, has been raising donkeys for 10 to 15 years. Before Brooke India's intervention, Harekrishna lacked knowledge of proper care techniques, resulting in the loss of four of his donkeys due to tetanus. He had no secure housing for them resulting in theft, and lacked an understanding of giving them rest, regular access to water and balanced feed.
After connecting with Brooke India he received a range of support - from animal husbandry and veterinary advice to even being taught farriery skills. Brooke provided him with first aid kits and advised on preventative measures like tetanus vaccinations and deworming. The kits also included medicines containing magnesium sulphate to be given to an animal with an upset stomach and ointments to apply to wounds.
Harekrishna prides himself on feeding his donkeys a balanced diet. He provides wet and dry fodder and has an Azolla pit. He also grows his donkey’s maize and sorghum. Harekrishna also grooms his donkeys every morning and evening to prevent dirt build up.
He admits that his donkeys used to only drink three times a day. Now, there is a bowl of water on the ground at all times so the donkeys can drink while they work.
Harekrishna followed Brooke India's guidance diligently. He expressed gratitude for Brooke India's support and acknowledges the positive impact they had on his donkeys.
“I am thankful to Brooke India for helping me build better animal management practices. After joining Brooke India, our donkeys have been doing well. Their information helps us to keep our donkeys healthy."
How your support can go even further
We aim to improve the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules – both now and in the future. This year we reached 1.8 million animals across Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Donkey feed
A healthy donkey needs around 2-3kgs of forage a day. We help owners to grow suitable feed for their hard working donkeys.
Farriery training
The first farriery school outside of Europe and North America established in Senegal. We train local farriers to provide welfare-friendly hoof trimming and shoeing services.
Donkey care clubs
We train owners to fit pain-free and comfortable bits. Children are taught how to look after their animals at donkey care clubs to create long lasting change.
Good quality of life
Like people animals need time to rest with their friends, enjoy good food and have access to quality health care to keep them happy and healthy.