Dedicated to Enhancing the Welfare of Horses and Bullocks
Action for Protection of Wild Animals (APOWA) are one of our fantastic partner organisations in India.
With support from your heartfelt donations, they are reducing suffering and enhancing the wellbeing of horses and bullocks through their Working Animal Welfare Project.
APOWA are improving the welfare of these animals by addressing key issues such as inadequate care, poor living conditions and lack of access to veterinary services.
Last month, 105 working animals - primarily horses and bullocks - were treated through the free mobile veterinary clinic. Veterinary services provided for rural communities included:
Health Checkups: conducted thorough health assessments for working animals.
Vaccinations: administered vaccines to protect animals from common diseases.
Treatment Services: treated injuries, infections, fever and other medical conditions.
Community Outreach: educated owners on proper animal care and disease prevention.
The veterinary team treated a wide range of health conditions including fever, infections, wounds, diarrhoea, respiratory illnesses and malnutrition. As part of the project’s preventive health measures, vaccinations and deworming were also conducted. A total of 316 animals were vaccinated during this period to strengthen disease prevention.
In September, the veterinary team also conducted 19 follow-up visits to monitor the recovery and overall health of previously treated animals. This included six horses and 13 bullocks. These follow-up visits were conducted to enable the veterinary team to monitor treatment outcomes, address emerging health concerns and adjust care plans as necessary.
In addition, the project focuses on raising awareness and providing education to animal owners. Training equips owners with the knowledge and practical skills required to safeguard the health and welfare of their working animals.
During September, a training workshop was conducted with 33 animal owners covering key subjects such as animal health, welfare and best practices in husbandry. The project team also provided seasonal guidance on monsoon-related animal care, recognising the heightened health risks during the rainy season. Overall, the workshop strengthened owner knowledge and will contribute to improving long-term welfare outcomes for working animals.
One of APOWA’s services is a helpline desk service run by veterinarians. Last month, 26 animal owners were provided with remote assistance and guidance, thereby helping to prevent further potential health concerns.
APOWA also provide the local community with first aid kits and have trained a number of people to be Working Animal Champions. In September, 34 bullocks were treated, thereby providing immediate relief and preventing more serious health problems.
Thank you for your ongoing, generous support, which is allowing APOWA to run their crucial project for working animals. These animals are so often forgotten but, together, we are creating a world where they are acknowledged, cared for and respected.