Colombia

Why we work here?

Colombia is World Horse Welfare’s newest project country. In the rural areas the mountainous terrain means people rely on horsepower to transport agricultural goods. The working animals suffer from back pain due to the heavy loads and lameness as a result of poor hoof conditions.

What we are doing?

This project is in its early stages! We carried out welfare assessments and research with the University of Nottingham so that we could discuss the issues with veterinary and agricultural institutions, government authorities and rural associations. Next we will work with each of these groups to improve equine welfare. For example introduce owner education into veterinary brigades, and develop farrier training courses.

Meet an equid

A mule working at a trapiche in Cisneros was picked by his owner, especially as he is a large mule at 15hh. Six days a week he carries loads of approximately 300 kg of sugar cane from the fields on steep thin tracks. 

His owner and handler treat him well, giving him time to find his footing on the way down the mountain. The mule is kept in good condition being fed on sugar cane with grass turn out at night, but the work does put strain on his legs and his hooves are not in good condition so he is often lame.