Charity says ‘gap’ between concern and action for working animals

Charity says ‘gap’ between concern and action for working animals A charity has said there is a 'gap' between public concern and meaningful action to improve the lives of working animals, after a new poll suggested many Brits are unclear about the role they play. A recent video shared by Working Animals International shows the demanding work and daily challenges faced by working animals. It features 13-year-old donkey Lagdaf who, like many others, works for more than 10 hours a day, hauling 400 litres of water to supply his community. The video highlights hazards including plastic waste and busy roads. In Mauritania, Lagdaf works in temperatures above 36°C, where the climate crisis is driving increasingly extreme heat and summer highs can reach a scorching 45°C. One in five adults say they wouldn’t feel confident identifying a working animal, according to new research released ahead of World Animal Day (4 October). A poll of 2,000 people suggests many are unclear about the day-to-day role these animals play in supporting communities around the world. In many places, working animals are essential to helping families and communities move supplies, carry water and get goods to where they’re needed. Animals including donkeys, mules and oxen are among those still relied upon for this work. The research from Working Animals International found 29% admitted they aren’t aware of the work working animals do. Yet, despite this lack of knowledge, the poll found 77% would like to improve the lives of working animals. James Harcourt, chief executive for Working Animals International which released the video and commissioned the research ahead of World Animal Day on 4th October, said: “It’s really encouraging to see that the majority of people want to improve the lives of working animals. “But there is clearly a gap between that concern and taking action. We hope Lagdaf’s video can help bridge that gap. “By seeing the world through his eyes, people can better understand the challenges working animals face every day, the essential role they play in their communities and why their welfare matters.” Eight in 10 believe more should be done to support working animals, with the biggest concerns being injury or illness, long working hours, and a lack of food and water. What’s more, 83% think working animals are often overlooked because they are taken for granted and there’s a lack of public awareness of them and the amount of work they do. The OnePoll research also found 65% of people are worried about the impact of the climate crisis on working animals, with droughts and rising temperatures the biggest concerns. In fact, 55% agreed the recent UK heatwaves have increased their awareness of the impact the climate crisis will have on animals around the world. Harcourt added: “While the research shows there is strong concern for working animals and their welfare, it also highlights a gap in understanding about the vital role they play. "We hope Lagdaf’s story encourages more people to see the world through their eyes and learn more about working animals this World Animal Day. "At Working Animals International we’re working to make sure animals like Lagdaf are no longer overlooked – by improving access to veterinary care, supporting owners and communities, and building greater recognition of working animals and their needs.”