# Housing and Shelter for Working Equids: Design and Management ## Key Takeaways - Minimum stall dimensions are critical for working equid welfare, with draft horses requiring 3.7m x 4.3m, donkeys 2.4m x 3.0m, and mules 3.0m x 3.7m, ensuring space for natural behaviors like lying down and turning. - Adequate ventilation, with openings comprising 8-15% of floor area depending on species, is paramount to prevent respiratory diseases by controlling ammonia levels below 10 ppm and minimizing dust and mold. - Bedding depth recommendations vary by species (10-15 cm for horses/mules, 5-10 cm for donkeys) and requires daily removal of soiled material and weekly full replacement to maintain hygiene and insulation. - Pasture access is essential, with a minimum of 0.4 hectares (1 acre) per animal recommended, and safe fencing (avoiding barbed wire) and accessible shelter are crucial for protection from environmental extremes. - Structural integrity, non-slip flooring with adequate drainage (2-3% slope), and appropriate ceiling heights (minimum 2.4m to 3.0m) are fundamental to preventing injuries and ensuring animal comfort. - Regular record-keeping, including daily observations of bedding, water, and animal behavior, alongside weekly and monthly assessments of environmental parameters and facility condition, aids in early problem detection and management. --- Working equids including draft horses, donkeys, and mules require housing and shelter that protects them from extreme weather, provides adequate space for movement and rest, and supports their health and welfare. This article covers stall dimensions, ventilation, bedding, pasture access, and shelter design for farmers building or upgrading facilities. The guidance draws on principles from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) animal welfare framework, FAO animal production resources, and Merck Veterinary Manual management and nutrition guidelines. Practical management decisions, record-keeping, and professional escalation criteria are included to help you assess and improve your current setup. ## At a Glance: Key Housing Design Decisions The table below summarizes essential housing parameters for working equids. Use it as a quick reference when planning new construction or evaluating existing shelters. | Parameter | Draft Horses | Donkeys | Mules | |-----------|--------------|---------|-------| | Minimum stall width | 3.7 m (12 ft) | 2.4 m (8 ft) | 3.0 m (10 ft) | | Minimum stall depth | 4.3 m (14 ft) | 3.0 m (10 ft) | 3.7 m (12 ft) | | Ceiling height | 3.0 m (10 ft) minimum | 2.4 m (8 ft) minimum | 2.7 m (9 ft) minimum | | Ventilation openings | 10-15% of floor area | 8-12% of floor area | 10-15% of floor area | | Bedding depth | 10-15 cm (4-6 in) | 5-10 cm (2-4 in) | 10-15 cm (4-6 in) | | Pasture access | Daily when weather permits | Daily essential | Daily when weather permits | | Shelter from sun | Required | Required | Required | | Shelter from rain/snow | Required | Required | Required | These dimensions are starting points. Adjust based on individual animal size, local climate, and management system. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides additional resources on livestock housing design adapted to different production systems. ## Stall Dimensions and Layout Stall size directly affects the comfort, safety, and health of working equids. A stall that is too small restricts movement, increases the risk of injury, and contributes to respiratory problems from poor air quality. A stall that is too large may be difficult to keep clean and can lead to waste management issues. ### Minimum Dimensions for Working Equids For draft horses, a stall width of 3.7 m (12 ft) and depth of 4.3 m (14 ft) allows the animal to lie down, stand up, and turn around without difficulty. Donkeys require less space: a stall of 2.4 m (8 ft) by 3.0 m (10 ft) is adequate for most working donkeys. Mules fall between these two, with a recommended stall of 3.0 m (10 ft) by 3.7 m (12 ft). These dimensions assume the animal is housed individually. If you keep multiple equids in a single pen or loose housing, increase the total area by at least 50% per additional animal. For group housing, provide a minimum of 9.3 m² (100 ft²) per animal for donkeys and 14 m² (150 ft²) per animal for horses and mules. ### Ceiling Height and Headroom Ceiling height must allow the animal to raise its head fully without hitting the roof. For draft horses, a minimum ceiling height of 3.0 m (10 ft) is recommended. Donkeys can manage with 2.4 m (8 ft), while mules need at least 2.7 m (9 ft). Higher ceilings improve ventilation and reduce the buildup of ammonia and dust. ### Stall Doors and Aisles Stall doors should be at least 1.2 m (4 ft) wide for donkeys and 1.5 m (5 ft) wide for horses and mules. Sliding doors are preferred over hinged doors because they reduce the risk of injury when the animal pushes against them. Aisles between stalls should be at least 2.4 m (8 ft) wide to allow safe movement of animals and equipment. ### Flooring and Drainage Stall floors should be non-slip, durable, and well-drained. Concrete is common but must be textured or grooved to prevent slipping. Rubber mats over concrete provide cushioning and reduce leg fatigue. For donkeys, which are adapted to arid environments, ensure the floor does not stay wet for long periods. A slight slope of 2-3% toward a drain or door helps remove urine and cleaning water. ## Ventilation and Air Quality Poor ventilation is a leading cause of respiratory disease in housed equids. Ammonia from urine, dust from bedding and feed, and airborne pathogens accumulate in enclosed spaces. The Merck Veterinary Manual management and nutrition resources emphasize that adequate ventilation is critical for equine health. ### Natural Ventilation Principles Natural ventilation relies on openings at the ridge and eaves of the roof. Warm, moist air rises and exits through ridge vents, while fresh air enters through side openings. For working equid housing, provide ventilation openings equal to 10-15% of the floor area for horses and mules, and 8-12% for donkeys. Orientation of the building matters. Position the ridge perpendicular to prevailing winds to maximize airflow. In hot climates, increase side openings and consider adding fans to move air through the stalls. ### Mechanical Ventilation In regions with extreme cold or heat, mechanical ventilation may be necessary. Exhaust fans mounted in the ridge or gable ends can remove stale air. Intake fans bring in fresh air. The system should provide at least four air changes per hour in winter and eight to ten in summer. Monitor air quality regularly using ammonia test strips or electronic sensors. Ammonia levels should remain below 10 ppm. ### Dust and Mold Control Dust from hay, straw, and bedding contributes to respiratory irritation. Store hay and bedding in a separate area from the stalls. Use low-dust bedding options such as wood shavings or paper products. Avoid moldy hay or straw, which can cause allergic airway disease. The USDA National Agricultural Library animal health and welfare resources provide additional information on managing respiratory health in livestock. ## Bedding and Waste Management Bedding provides cushioning, absorbs moisture, and insulates the animal from cold floors. The choice of bedding material affects stall hygiene, labor requirements, and waste disposal. ### Bedding Materials Common bedding materials include straw, wood shavings, sawdust, and paper products. Straw is absorbent and provides good insulation but can be dusty. Wood shavings are highly absorbent and low in dust but may be more expensive. Sawdust is similar to shavings but can compact and become less comfortable. Paper products are absorbent and low in dust but may require more frequent replacement. For donkeys, which are prone to foot problems if kept on wet surfaces, use a bedding material that drains well and dries quickly. Sand or fine gravel can be used in outdoor shelters but is not recommended for indoor stalls because it can be ingested and cause impaction. ### Bedding Depth and Replacement Maintain a bedding depth of 10-15 cm (4-6 in) for horses and mules, and 5-10 cm (2-4 in) for donkeys. Remove wet and soiled bedding daily. Completely strip and replace bedding at least once per week, or more frequently if the stall becomes heavily soiled. ### Manure Management Manure and used bedding must be removed from the stall area daily and stored away from the housing. Composting manure reduces odor and fly problems. The USDA Agricultural Research Service animal production and protection resources offer guidance on manure management for livestock operations. ## Pasture Access and Exercise Working equids need regular access to pasture or exercise areas for physical and mental health. Confinement to stalls for extended periods leads to behavioral problems, muscle stiffness, and increased risk of colic. ### Pasture Size and Rotation Provide a minimum of 0.4 hectares (1 acre) per animal for continuous grazing. For rotational grazing, divide the pasture into smaller paddocks and move animals every 7-14 days. This prevents overgrazing, reduces parasite buildup, and maintains forage quality. ### Fencing and Safety Fencing must be visible, strong, and safe. Wooden post-and-rail fencing is durable and visible. High-tensile wire fencing with smooth wire is also acceptable but must be clearly marked with flags or tape. Barbed wire is not recommended for equids because it causes severe injuries. Electric fencing can be used for temporary paddocks but requires regular maintenance. ### Shelter in Pasture Pasture should include a natural or man-made shelter that provides shade from sun and protection from rain, snow, and wind. A three-sided shelter with the open side facing away from prevailing winds is effective. The shelter should be large enough for all animals to use simultaneously. For donkeys, which are adapted to hot, dry climates, shade is essential during the hottest part of the day. ## Shelter from Weather Working equids are exposed to a range of weather conditions depending on the region and season. Proper shelter protects them from heat stress, hypothermia, and sunburn. ### Heat Stress Prevention In hot climates, provide shade in the form of trees, shade cloth, or a roofed structure. Ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed shelters. Offer cool, clean water at all times. For donkeys, which evolved in arid environments, heat tolerance is higher than for horses, but they still require shade and water. Signs of heat stress include excessive sweating, rapid breathing, lethargy, and refusal to eat. ### Cold Weather Protection In cold climates, shelter must protect from wind, rain, and snow. A closed barn with adequate ventilation is ideal. Provide deep bedding for insulation. For draft horses, which have thick winter coats, a simple windbreak may be sufficient if they have access to a dry area. Donkeys have thinner coats and are less tolerant of cold and wet conditions. They require a dry, draft-free shelter during cold weather. ### Rain and Mud Management Prolonged exposure to rain and mud damages hooves and skin. Provide a dry area for standing and lying down. In wet climates, install drainage systems to remove standing water from paddocks and shelter entrances. Use gravel or crushed stone at gateways and high-traffic areas to reduce mud. ## Housing Design Checklist Use this checklist when planning new construction or evaluating existing facilities. Each item should be assessed and recorded. ### Structural Requirements - Stall dimensions meet minimum recommendations for the species and size of animal - Ceiling height allows full head extension - Floor is non-slip and well-drained - Walls and partitions are smooth and free of sharp edges - Doors are wide enough for safe passage and open outward or slide ### Ventilation and Air Quality - Ridge and eave vents are present and unobstructed - Ventilation openings equal 10-15% of floor area for horses and mules, 8-12% for donkeys - Ammonia levels are below 10 ppm - Dust and mold sources are minimized ### Bedding and Hygiene - Bedding material is appropriate for the species and climate - Bedding depth is maintained at recommended levels - Wet and soiled bedding is removed daily - Manure is stored away from housing ### Pasture and Exercise - Pasture area meets minimum size requirements - Fencing is safe and visible - Shelter is available in pasture - Animals have daily access to exercise area ### Weather Protection - Shade is available during hot weather - Windbreak or closed shelter is available during cold weather - Drainage prevents standing water and mud - Water is clean and accessible at all times ## Records and Measurements Keeping records of housing conditions and animal health helps identify problems early and supports management decisions. Record the following at regular intervals. ### Daily Records - Bedding condition and depth - Water availability and cleanliness - Ventilation system operation - Animal behavior and appetite - Any signs of injury or illness ### Weekly Records - Ammonia levels in stalls - Bedding replacement schedule - Manure removal and storage - Pasture condition and rotation ### Monthly Records - Stall dimensions and condition - Fencing integrity - Shelter condition and repairs needed - Animal weight and body condition score ### Annual Records - Housing design review and updates - Ventilation system maintenance - Pasture soil testing and fertilization - Professional inspection of facilities ## Common Failure Patterns Recognizing common housing failures helps you correct problems before they affect animal health. ### Inadequate Ventilation Symptoms include ammonia smell, condensation on walls, respiratory coughing, and eye irritation. Correct by increasing ridge and eave openings, adding fans, or reducing animal density. ### Poor Drainage Standing water in stalls or paddocks leads to hoof rot, skin infections, and increased parasite load. Improve drainage by regrading the floor, installing drains, or adding gravel. ### Insufficient Space Cramped stalls cause injuries, behavioral problems, and difficulty cleaning. Expand stalls or reduce the number of animals per pen. ### Unsafe Fencing Broken or poorly maintained fencing causes injuries and escapes. Inspect fencing weekly and repair immediately. ### Inadequate Shelter Animals exposed to extreme weather without protection suffer from heat stress, hypothermia, or sunburn. Add shade structures, windbreaks, or enclosed shelters as needed. ## Welfare and Safety Context The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) animal welfare framework provides principles for responsible animal care. Housing and shelter are fundamental to meeting the Five Freedoms: freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury, or disease, freedom to express normal behavior, and freedom from fear and distress. Working equids in many regions face challenges including inadequate shelter, poor nutrition, and lack of veterinary care. The participatory appraisal study on donkey healthcare and welfare management strategies in Balochistan, Pakistan, highlights the importance of community-based approaches to improving welfare. Similarly, the first molecular evidence of [equine granulocytic anaplasmosis](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/anaplasma-phagocytophilum-equine-granulocytic-anaplasmosis-tick) in Pakistan underscores the need for disease surveillance and vector control in housed animals. ### Worker Safety Housing design affects the safety of people working with equids. Ensure aisles are wide enough for safe movement. Use non-slip flooring in work areas. Provide adequate lighting for cleaning and handling. Store feed and bedding in separate areas to reduce fire risk. ### Biosecurity Housing design can reduce disease transmission. Provide separate stalls for sick animals. Use footbaths at entrances. Control rodent and insect populations. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration animal and veterinary resources offer guidance on biosecurity for livestock operations. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Some housing and health problems require professional assessment. Escalate to a veterinarian, agricultural engineer, or animal welfare specialist when you observe the following. ### Veterinary Escalation - Respiratory disease affecting multiple animals - Persistent lameness or hoof problems - Unexplained weight loss or poor body condition - Signs of infectious disease such as fever, coughing, or diarrhea - Parasite infestation not controlled by routine deworming ### Engineering Escalation - Structural damage to stalls or shelter - Ventilation system failure not correctable by routine maintenance - Drainage problems that cannot be resolved by regrading or adding drains - Electrical or fire safety concerns ### Welfare Escalation - Animals unable to lie down or stand up safely - Persistent behavioral problems such as weaving or stall walking - Injuries from housing components - Inability to provide adequate shelter due to extreme weather events ## Practical Decision Framework for Housing Upgrades: Cost-Benefit and Priority Assessment When resources are limited, farmers must decide which housing improvements to make first. A structured decision framework helps you allocate time, materials, and money to changes that deliver the greatest welfare and productivity gains. This section provides a priority assessment method, a cost-benefit comparison table, and a step-by-step implementation sequence for upgrading working equid housing. ### Priority Assessment Matrix Use the following matrix to rank potential housing improvements. Score each proposed change on two axes: impact on animal welfare and ease of implementation. Impact considers how many animals benefit, how severely the current deficit affects health, and whether the change prevents common diseases or injuries. Ease considers cost, labor, materials availability, and whether you can complete the work yourself or need professional help. | Improvement | Welfare Impact Score (1-5) | Ease of Implementation Score (1-5) | Priority Rank | |-------------|---------------------------|-----------------------------------|---------------| | Add ridge vent | 5 | 4 | High | | Increase bedding depth | 4 | 5 | High | | Install non-slip flooring | 4 | 3 | Medium-High | | Expand stall width | 3 | 2 | Medium | | Add pasture shelter | 4 | 4 | High | | Improve drainage | 5 | 3 | High | | Replace barbed wire fencing | 5 | 4 | High | | Install mechanical fan | 3 | 3 | Medium | | Add rubber mats | 3 | 4 | Medium | | Build new stall partition | 2 | 2 | Low-Medium | Score each item for your specific situation. A change that scores 4 or 5 on both axes should be implemented first. Changes scoring 2 or below on either axis may need to wait until resources or conditions improve. ### Cost-Benefit Comparison for Common Upgrades The table below compares estimated costs, expected benefits, and typical payback periods for housing improvements. Costs vary by region and material availability. Use these figures as planning estimates, not fixed prices. | Upgrade | Estimated Cost per Stall | Expected Benefit | Payback Period | |---------|------------------------|------------------|----------------| | Ridge vent installation | $50-150 | Reduced respiratory disease, lower ammonia | 1-2 seasons | | Bedding depth increase | $10-30 per week | Fewer hoof problems, better rest | Immediate | | Non-slip floor texturing | $100-300 | Fewer injuries, less leg fatigue | 1-2 years | | Rubber stall mats | $200-500 | Reduced bedding use, better cushioning | 2-3 years | | Pasture shelter (3-sided) | $500-1500 | Protection from sun and rain, lower stress | 1-2 years | | Drainage system | $200-800 | Less mud, fewer hoof infections | 1-2 years | | Fence replacement | $500-2000 per paddock | Fewer injuries, no escapes | 2-4 years | | Mechanical fan system | $300-800 per stall | Better air movement in hot weather | 2-3 years | Record your actual costs and observed benefits. This data helps you make better decisions for future upgrades and can be shared with other farmers in your network. ### Step-by-Step Implementation Sequence Follow this sequence when planning multiple housing upgrades. The order prioritizes changes that address immediate health risks and require the least disruption to your animals. **Step 1: Address critical health and safety risks (week 1-2)** - Remove barbed wire fencing and replace with safe alternatives - Fix structural hazards such as protruding nails, broken boards, or sharp edges - Ensure clean water is available at all times - Provide immediate shade if animals are exposed to direct sun **Step 2: Improve ventilation and air quality (week 2-4)** - Clear existing ridge and eave vents of debris - Add ridge vents if none exist - Install exhaust fans if natural ventilation is insufficient - Monitor ammonia levels weekly until they stay below 10 ppm **Step 3: Upgrade flooring and drainage (week 3-6)** - Regrade stall floors to slope 2-3% toward drains - Add drainage channels or gravel at shelter entrances - Install non-slip surface on concrete floors - Add rubber mats in areas where animals stand for long periods **Step 4: Increase bedding quality and depth (ongoing)** - Switch to low-dust bedding material if current bedding causes respiratory issues - Maintain recommended bedding depth for each species - Establish a daily removal schedule for wet bedding - Set a weekly complete bedding replacement routine **Step 5: Expand or reconfigure space (month 2-3)** - Widen stalls if current dimensions restrict movement - Add partitions to separate incompatible animals - Create separate feeding areas for donkeys if housed with horses - Increase pen size for group housing **Step 6: Add pasture and exercise improvements (month 2-4)** - Install pasture shelter with open side facing away from prevailing wind - Set up rotational grazing paddocks - Improve fencing visibility with markers or tape - Provide hard-standing areas near water sources to reduce mud **Step 7: Install mechanical systems if needed (month 3-6)** - Add fans for hot climates - Install heaters or heat lamps only in extreme cold and with fire safety precautions - Set up automatic waterers if manual watering is inconsistent ### Records for Decision Making Keep a housing improvement log with the following fields for each upgrade you consider or complete: - Date of assessment - Current problem description - Proposed solution - Estimated cost (materials and labor) - Expected welfare impact (score 1-5) - Ease of implementation (score 1-5) - Date implemented - Actual cost - Observed outcomes after 30 days and 90 days - Any problems encountered during installation Review this log quarterly. Patterns will emerge showing which upgrades consistently deliver good results and which need adjustment. ### Common Decision Errors Avoid these mistakes when prioritizing housing improvements. **Choosing cheapest option without considering durability.** Low-cost materials may need replacement within one season, costing more in the long run. Compare total cost over three years, beyond purchase price. **Focusing on visible upgrades over functional ones.** A new coat of paint looks good but does not improve ventilation or drainage. Address health-critical issues before cosmetic changes. **Ignoring species-specific needs.** Donkeys require different bedding depth, stall size, and cold weather protection than horses. Using horse standards for donkeys leads to wet conditions and hoof problems. **Delaying drainage improvements.** Standing water and mud cause hoof rot, skin infections, and increased parasite loads. Drainage fixes should be among the first upgrades completed. **Overlooking worker safety.** Poor lighting, narrow aisles, and slippery floors put both animals and handlers at risk. Include worker safety in your priority assessment. ### When to Seek Professional Advice Some housing decisions require expertise beyond general farming knowledge. Consult a veterinarian, agricultural engineer, or extension specialist when: - You are designing a new barn or major renovation - Ventilation problems persist after adding ridge vents and fans - Drainage issues require earthmoving or underground pipe installation - You need help calculating load-bearing capacity for roof structures - Local regulations require permits for construction or waste management The FAO Animal Production and Health division and the USDA Agricultural Research Service animal production and protection resources provide technical guides that can help you prepare for professional consultations. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the minimum stall size for a draft horse? A draft horse stall should be at least 3.7 m (12 ft) wide and 4.3 m (14 ft) deep. This allows the animal to lie down, stand up, and turn around safely. Larger horses may need more space. ### Can donkeys be housed with horses or mules? Donkeys can be housed with horses or mules if they are compatible and have enough space. However, donkeys have different dietary and social needs. They may be bullied by larger equids and require separate feeding areas. Monitor interactions closely. ### How often should bedding be replaced? Remove wet and soiled bedding daily. Completely strip and replace bedding at least once per week. In hot or humid conditions, more frequent replacement may be necessary to control ammonia and moisture. ### What type of fencing is safest for equids? Wooden post-and-rail fencing is safest because it is visible and strong. High-tensile smooth wire with visible markers is also acceptable. Barbed wire should never be used for equids because it causes severe injuries. ### Do donkeys need different housing than horses? Yes. Donkeys are adapted to arid environments and are less tolerant of cold and wet conditions. They require dry, draft-free shelter during cold weather. Their stalls can be smaller than those for horses, but they need daily access to pasture or exercise areas. ### How can I improve ventilation in an existing barn? Increase ridge and eave openings if possible. Add exhaust fans to remove stale air. Ensure intake openings are unobstructed. Reduce animal density if ventilation is inadequate. Monitor ammonia levels to assess improvement. ### What bedding material is best for donkeys? Wood shavings or paper products are good choices because they are absorbent and low in dust. Straw can be used but may be dusty. Avoid sand or fine gravel indoors because it can cause impaction if ingested. ### How much pasture does a working equid need? Provide a minimum of 0.4 hectares (1 acre) per animal for continuous grazing. For rotational grazing, divide the pasture into smaller paddocks and move animals every 7-14 days. Adjust based on forage quality and climate. ## Related Farming Guides - [Camel Housing Systems Design Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-housing-systems-design-management) - [Poultry Housing Systems Design Management Broilers Layers Turkeys](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/poultry-housing-systems-design-management-broilers-layers-turkeys) - [Rabbit Cage And Colony Housing Decisions Welfare Hygiene And Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-cage-and-colony-housing-decisions-welfare-hygiene-and-management) - [Livestock Waste Management Composting Anaerobic Digestion Nutrient Recovery](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/livestock-waste-management-composting-anaerobic-digestion-nutrient-recovery) - [Camel Breeding Management Genetics Reproduction](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-breeding-management-genetics-reproduction) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Water Buffalo Genetic Improvement and Breeding Programs](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-genetic-improvement-breeding-programs) * [Camel Farm Biosecurity: Disease Prevention and Quarantine Protocols](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-farm-biosecurity-disease-prevention-quarantine-protocols) * [Water Buffalo Farm Equipment and Infrastructure](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-farm-equipment-infrastructure) ## References and Further Reading - [www.woah.org](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-welfare) - [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/dad-is) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Animal Production and Protection](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). USDA Agricultural Research Service. - [Animal and Veterinary Resources](https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. - [First molecular evidence of equine granulocytic anaplasmosis in Pakistan](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.12.032). Acta Tropica, 2018. - [Participatory appraisal for healthcare and welfare management strategies of donkeys (Equus ascinus) in Balochistan, Pakistan](https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.1005079). Frontiers in [Veterinary Science](/blog/news/veterinary-science), 2022. - [Effects of fish-meal supplementation and shearing in store/finishing systems for lambs](https://doi.org/10.1017/S0003356100037302). Animal Production, 1992. - [Health evaluation of donkeys: Parasite control methods and a model for challenge infections](https://doi.org/10.11606/ISSN.1678-4456.BJVRAS.2021.174275). Brazilian Journal of Veterinary Research and Animal Science, 2021. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.