Assessment of Factors for External Injuries and Welfare Problems of Equine in South Wollo Zone Amhara Region, Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was carried out in selected districts of South Wollo zone of the Amhara Region, Ethiopia during the period between April 2013 and December, 2013 to identify the major factors associated with external injuries in equines. Moreover, 180 randomly selected farmers were interviewed to collect relevant data on equine management and welfare issues. 586 working equines (346 donkeys and 240 mules) were examined clinically for screening injuries on body parts. Among the equines, 95.9% donkeys and 80.8% mules were used as pack animals. 63%, 27% and 9.8% of donkeys and 35%, 56.7% and 8.3% of mules were in thin, medium and good body condition score, respectively. The study revealed 66.6% overall prevalence of external injuries. The incidence of external injury in these animals was independent of age and species. Injuries caused by improper harness (saddle) design and overload were more common in both donkeys and mules. Injuries were most common in the back (31.8%), brisket region (12.3%), flank (10.8%) and tail base (6.2%). Out of a total of 108 interviewed farmers, 13.8% did not provide any treatment to their equines and 33.4% used their equine continuously regardless of the presence and severity of injures. In general, improper harnessing, overloading and ill-fitted saddle design were the major causes of external injuries in working equines of the area. The study disclosed higher prevalence of external injuries and absence of proper management of working donkeys and mules in south Wollo zone. Thus, a comprehensive equine health and welfare promotion program should be taken without any delay to alleviate the existing problems in the near future.