Zambezi Working Donkey Project Update - Balancing challenges for Zambezi Donkeys
The scorching sun of Zambia's dry season has brought both challenges and opportunities for our partner Zambezi Working Donkey Project (ZWDP). The dry season depletes natural grazing lands, posing a challenge for both working donkeys and those at Maramba Farm.
Your support allows ZWDP to provide supplemental feed, including hay, mineral licks, and horse feed, ensuring the donkeys have the strength to endure the harsh conditions.
In May, ZWDP reached 39 donkey owners, treating a total of 138 donkeys which is astounding!
This included:
Parasite prevention for 135 donkeys
Deworming for 119 donkeys
Wound care for 6 donkeys
The team also replaced 4 inhumane ox-yokes with comfortable harnesses, promoting better working conditions for donkeys.
The news of a beloved donkey's passing in Muchinga village on May 27th weighed heavily on our hearts. The team responded swiftly when the donkey fell critically ill, but it was sadly too late.
At Maramba Farm, compassion and dedication continues as 20 donkeys and 2 foals received the care they needed.
Sitolo, an 8-year-old jenny rescued in April for balance issues, became a permanent resident on May 22nd. She's doing well in her paddock!
Another success story is Kamuseka, the farm's smallest resident. When she arrived in December, she was weak and ill. Thanks to dedicated care, her infected wounds have healed, and her strength is steadily improving.
Five rescued donkeys are still receiving wound care, with positive progress in all cases.
To keep the herd healthy, a new routine of dipping, deworming, and hoof trimming was implemented.
Unfortunately, Lillian, a February rescue, suffered an abortion on May 28th. This is the second such case at the farm this year. The ZWDP veterinarian is dedicated to investigating these occurrences to prevent future losses.
With your support, ZWDP can keep making a difference for working donkeys in Zambia. Your donations make it possible - to be the shield against harsh Zambia conditions, the providers of crucial care and a safe haven for rescued animals.
We'll continue to share ZWDP's progress and the incredible impact you're helping to make!
