Prevalence, Causes, and Risk Factors of Wounds in Working Donkeys at Duna Woreda, Hadiya Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2017 and August 2018 and examines work-related wounds in working donkeys in the Duna woreda of Southern Ethiopia, focusing on prevalence, causes, types, and risk factors. Equines are essential for transportation in the area, but they face health issues due to improper management practices. Out of 384 randomly selected donkeys, the overall prevalence of wounds was 45%, with higher rates in males, older animals, and those in poor body condition. The most common wound locations were the prescapular region, back, hind limb, and neck. Improper harnessing and biting were major causes, and abrasions were the most frequent type of wound observed. These findings emphasize the need for improved management practices and better healthcare for working donkeys. This research provides insights into the prevalence, causes, types, and risk factors associated with work-related wounds in working donkeys. It highlights the importance of implementing appropriate management strategies and providing regular healthcare to reduce the occurrence of wounds and benefit the health and welfare of working donkeys