Animal Aid Abroad (AAA), together with our partner Namigni Animal Sanctuary, is bringing much‑needed veterinary care and welfare education to working equines in Colombia’s Bogotá savanna region. In April, a mobile clinic reached 20 horses and mares across Guasca, La Calera, and Sopó — communities where equines are essential for dairy farming yet rarely receive professional veterinary attention.

April Mobile Clinic: Essential Care for Dairy Farm Equines

Led by Dr. Carlos Mario Jaramillo and supported by veterinary students from Universidad Antonio Nariño, the outreach team provided:

Hoof trimming and corrective care
Equine dental care for older and working horses
Clinical examinations and geriatric assessments
Blood testing for retired horses

Cases included:

A geriatric horse retired from labor, receiving diagnostics and supportive care.
A breeding mare with neglected hooves and stress‑related behavior, treated despite handling challenges.
An older gelding with advanced dental deterioration, given analgesics and scheduled for further treatment using specialized equipment donated by AAA supporters.

Behavioral and Welfare Insights

Many equines showed signs of handling anxiety and fear responses, linked to routine harsh practices. Owners were trained in low‑stress handling and humane interactions, improving both welfare outcomes and work efficiency.

The team also emphasized the importance of retirement planning for aging equines, encouraging owners to transition older animals out of labor and consider sanctuary placement when needed.

Challenges in Rural Colombia

Access to working equines remains difficult due to the isolated nature of dairy farms, where animals are rarely seen outside their immediate handlers. Building trust with communities is essential to deliver care and education.

Meanwhile, rising hay prices — worsened by climate disruptions linked to El Niño — continue to strain sanctuary operations. AAA’s financial support, matched by patron Philip Wollen, remains critical to sustain:

Hay and forage for rescued animals
Specialized feed for young, geriatric, and chronically ill equines
Medical supplies for routine care and emergency interventions

Global Impact Made Possible by You

Every hoof trim, dental treatment, and welfare workshop is powered by your generosity. Together, AAA and Namigni are turning burden into care and proving that local partnerships are the key to global change — ensuring Colombia’s working equines receive the dignity, safety, and compassion they deserve.