Millions of Working Horses & Donkeys Face Health Risks from Poor Harnessing

These days, the mention of a carthorse or mule plowing a field would transport many people back in time to an era of horse-drawn carriages and pre-industrial agriculture. However, animal traction is by no means a thing of the past. Around the world, an estimated 116 million working horses, donkeys and mules, collectively referred to as 'working equids," still provide vital support to low- and middle-income communities. This work includes carrying goods to and from the market, transporting people in taxi carts or collecting safe drinking water for rural households. These working animals are essential for sustaining the income of millions of households. While their value can motivate owners to provide better care, quality feed, and preventive treatment, these animals often work under extreme pressures. To understand the many welfare challenges that working equids face, our research team examined 14 low- and middle-income countries over 16 years. We found the greatest clinical issue was harness-related wounds. Our team of community representatives, NGO workers, and researchers from Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia and the University of Melbourne is now developing practical solutions and training programs to support these vital animal workers. Working animals are a lifeline According to World Bank estimates, approximately one-third of Ethiopians live in poverty, meaning a large proportion of the population relies heavily on small-scale farming, which is supported by working equids. It is estimated that Ethiopia holds upwards of 13 million equids—one of the largest populations for any country—who contribute to the national economy and help prevent human injuries and chronic pain from carrying heavy loads. In rural communities, these animals often take part in every step of the produce chain, from plowing fields and transporting harvested crops to threshing grain and finally taking the produce to market. Some official services like rubbish collection or public transport also rely on working equid power. But their significance often goes beyond pure economics, playing a unique cultural and social role in funerals, weddings or other festivities and may be given as dowries. All of these factors mean working equids are tied to community health and well-being through various One Health links, which recognizes that the well-being of animals, people and the environment are interrelated. Previous research by our team surveyed communities that rely on working animals, with one respondent underscoring their importance by saying, "My donkey's health is my health." These animals even contribute to environmental sustainability, providing a natural fertilizer through their manure and reducing reliance on machinery that can accelerate soil degradation and increase the carbon footprint. So, how does all this work affect the equid's health and welfare? The impact of inadequate harnessing Imagine going on a hike with a loaded backpack made of rope, constantly rubbing against your back. For many working equids, inadequate harnessing is a major welfare concern, leading to wounds, lameness and stress. Inadequate harnessing also affects communication between the cart driver and the animal, potentially leading to accidents or injuries to both the driver and the equid. An animal may not be able to work for long if stressed from pain or wearing a poorly designed harness. When an equid struggles to pull the loads required of it, this impacts its own well-being and, eventually, its owner's livelihood. Because of this, we sought to better understand the work practices employed and the equipment used to harness. We found that over two-thirds of the equids in our study had harness-related wounds. Equids often work seven days a week and often under extreme pressures, so this represents a major welfare concern. Going back to that heavy backpack analogy, these injuries can add up, like ropes rubbing against already sunburned shoulders on a hot summer's day. Our study also found that many harness issues in Ethiopia relate not only to the designs and materials, but also to how they are assembled and used. Cost and access to quality equipment were found to be a major barrier, as expected in low-income settings. But the issue is by no means only a financial one. Owners and cart-drivers expressed that they often did not receive any formal training, instead learning to use the harness by intuition alone. Using 3D printing and play to communicate To address these issues, our team of collaborators mapped which specific aspects of the equipment contributed to wounds. For example, improving the saddle padding, the blinkers and using a swingle tree, the part of the equipment that helps prevent the collar from rubbing when the animal moves. We then used these findings to work with local communities to build sustainable, cost-effective solutions that benefit those who need them most—cart drivers and their working equids. Our team organized the first workshop to share our findings with community members, in conjunction with colleagues from Addis Ababa University and a local Ethiopian cart horse association. The NExT Lab at the Melbourne School of Design created 3D-printed models of equids and their carts and miniature handmade harnesses were then added. During the workshop, cart drivers participated in hands-on training on the different harness components. This allowed the driver to observe the effects of changing different harness parts and positions, all without the need for live animals and in a safe, accessible, and fun way to learn. But to make truly sustainable improvements, access to affordable, high-quality equipment and passing on this practical knowledge to the next generation will be essential. Working equids are not just a distant reality Though the reliance on working equids may seem like a world away, you may play a closer role in the lives of these equids than you think. Have you ever trekked through stunning mountains with the help of a pack mule to carry your luggage, enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage ride while traveling or simply enjoyed a morning coffee or square of imported chocolate? In an increasingly global world, we are often part of supply chains that depend on working equids. As global citizens and consumers, recognizing the hidden labor of working equids highlights the importance of supporting ethical trade and animal welfare. By valuing the welfare of these equids, we also support sustainable development and healthier, more resilient communities worldwide.