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  SPANA in Africa

In Mauritania's capital, Nouakchott, a large proportion of the population have no mains water and rely on supplies being delivered by donkey carts. The work is hard and every day donkeys will pull carts carrying waterdrums weighing up to a tonne. Without proper care, these animals will continue to work with injuries and illness.

A good harness can make a huge difference to a working horse or donkey. So many animals suffer painful sores and infections from poorly fitting harnesses made of anything from second hand tyres to plastic bags and iron chains. Because owners can't afford new equipment, our workers show them how to make the most of the materials they have to construct more comfortable harnesses for their animals.

SPANA also employs a local teacher to accompany its mobile clinic around the capital, Nouakchott, talking directly to owners about the health of their animals. The success of this teaching project has been a catalyst in the building of a classroom in SPANA's refuge, so that children can learn about animal welfare.

SPANA cares for working animals: many are used to pull essential supplies of water around the capital, Nouakchott.

Photo: SPANA