You may remember that I recently shared an update from our Nablus team in the West Bank, who were forced to turn back from a trip to Senjil, due to road blocks.
But they were determined not to let the day go to waste. The team quickly changed course and travelled through several villages before reaching Mazare’ Al Nobani, near Ramallah.
By the end of the day, they had provided much-needed care to 31 working donkeys and horses. Here’s an update on what happened next – made possible thanks to your support.
Update from the West Bank
One of the first animals the team treated was a donkey who was struggling to walk after spending several weeks in a cramped and uncomfortable shelter.
He had been living alongside a horse in a small space with a rocky, uneven floor. Over time, the poor conditions had taken their toll. He was dehydrated, his muscles had become stiff and painful and he could no longer walk comfortably.
Dr Rakan provided urgent care to this donkey, who was severely dehydrated and struggling to walk.
Dr Rakan gave him fluids to treat his dehydration, along with pain relief and vitamins to help him recover.
He also spent time talking with his owner about how the shelter was affecting him and the simple changes that could make it safer and more comfortable. The owner listened carefully and promised to improve the floor before the team’s next visit.
Treating animals who are already suffering is only one part of our work. Our teams also work alongside owners to make changes that can prevent painful injuries from happening in the first place.
After receiving fluids and pain relief, the donkey was also fitted with a soft new head collar.
During their visits, they still find donkeys and horses wearing nose chains. These heavy chains can cut into the skin, cause painful pressure sores and, over time, lead to lasting damage.
Whenever the team finds an unsuitable chain, they remove it and replace it with a soft, properly fitted one, or hand made padded covers, helping owners guide their animals safely without causing unnecessary pain.
A new head collar may seem like a small change, but it can make a huge difference to a working animal’s comfort every day.
Dr Rakan also makes practical changes like this – replacing harsh chains with soft, properly fitted head collars.
Thank you ♥️♥️
Your support helps our veterinary teams reach working donkeys, horses and mules with the treatment and medicines they urgently need. It also allows them to work alongside owners, making practical changes that can prevent further pain and suffering.
Thank you for helping these gentle animals live healthier and more comfortable lives.
Thanks to your support, our mobile teams can provide urgent veterinary care while also helping owners prevent future suffering.