A Sad Loss Inspires Positive Action for Kabul’s Donkeys
We wanted to share an update from our partner group, Nowzad, that truly highlights how vital their Working Animal Programme is in Kabul. Rescuing and caring for this sick, exhausted donkey could only take place due to your heartfelt support and donations.
Turning Grief into Action for Kabul’s Donkeys
We recently rescued a donkey who was in an incredibly critical state. He was barely moving, only just breathing, and it was heartbreaking to see.
Our dedicated vets suspected a severe liver and respiratory issue, but without advanced diagnostic tools here in Kabul, a full diagnosis and prognosis were challenging.
He was a very sick boy, but there were initially tiny glimmers of hope. He managed to stand up with the help of our hoist, and even eat a little bit of food.
We did everything we could for this brave donkey, but sadly, we lost him. Despite our team's best efforts, the donkey's exhaustion, heat stroke, and severe liver issues were too much for him to overcome.
While we are heartbroken by this loss, we are inspired to turn our grief into positive action. This little donkey's struggle and another just like him who was hospitalised yesterday has fuelled our mission.
Earlier this week, we hosted an educational event at our new hospital, inviting donkey owners from all over Kabul to learn about the importance of proper donkey husbandry and welfare.
This case perfectly illustrates why our Working Animal Programme is so crucial. Through education and outreach, Nowzad empowers donkey owners in Afghanistan to recognise when their animals are unwell and to know they can contact Nowzad for help.
This early intervention is often the difference between life and death for these incredible, hardworking animals.
Essential Veterinary Care for Working Animals
Along with this rescue case, the Nowzad team also assisted 120 other working animals during August through their veterinary mobile clinics.
61 working donkeys and horses were provided with essential veterinary care.
25 animals were dewormed.
34 animals were vaccinated for rabies and tetanus.
Some ailments treated included:
Respiratory issues
Hernia
Rumenotomy
Limping
Mastitis
Wound
Anorexia
Body pain
Diarrhoea
Abscess
Weakness
Babesia
Botulism
Digestive issues
Joint problem
Teat obstruction
Thirty other animals were provided with vet treatment in August, including cows, calves, sheep, goats and deer.
Nine animals were hospitalised last month, including five cows or calves, three donkeys and one horse.
The cow underwent a rumenotomy; a calf was admitted with babesia, weakness and a hernia; while the donkeys and horse were hospitalised for weakness and wounds.
Another cow also underwent a rumenotomy out in the field.
Additionally, the Nowzad team distributed 13 first aid kits to working animal owners at brick kilns and local farms.
With your invaluable ongoing support, Nowzad will continue in their vital mission to improve the lives, wellbeing and welfare of working animals in Kabul.