Jack the carthorse: receiving life-saving care
Around the world, the ongoing climate crisis and rising cost of living are taking a heavy toll on working animals and their owners. Animals like Jack, a once strong and energetic carthorse from Mauritania, can quickly become vulnerable when faced with heat, hunger, and exhaustion.
Jack arrived at our member charity SPANA’s veterinary centre in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, weak, dehydrated, and severely underweight. His condition was critical — but thanks to your support, SPANA’s expert team was ready to help.
A hardworking horse in crisis
Jack spends his days alongside his owner, Mamadou, transporting people across Nouakchott. Their journeys are essential, helping local families reach hospitals, markets, and loved ones. However, long hours in the Saharan heat, combined with economic pressures and limited access to veterinary care, had left Jack struggling to survive.
Worried about his horse’s condition, Mamadou brought Jack to SPANA’s mobile clinic for help. The veterinary team carried out a full examination and discovered he was suffering from dehydration, internal parasites, and overgrown hooves – all common problems for working animals enduring harsh conditions and poor nutrition.
Expert treatment and recovery
The vets immediately began treatment. Jack received anti-parasitic medication to clear the infection, and a skilled farrier carefully trimmed his hooves to ease his pain. He was given vitamin supplements and a much-needed long drink of clean water.
Mamadou listened closely as SPANA’s team explained how to keep Jack healthy, including the importance of regular rest, fresh water, and a balanced diet. To support his recovery, the centre also provided emergency feed and invited Mamadou to attend a community training session on animal care and welfare.
A brighter future for Jack
Thanks to SPANA’s ongoing support, Jack made a full recovery. His hooves are healthy, his strength has returned, and he can continue helping Mamadou earn a living – this time with proper care and comfort.
“I always bring my animals to SPANA,” says Mamadou. “They treat them in the best way possible and carry out all the necessary treatments.”
Helping working animals worldwide
Jack’s story is just one example of how your kindness makes a difference. Your donations help SPANA provide free veterinary care, owner training, and emergency feed to thousands of working animals across the world – animals who would otherwise have no access to treatment.
Thank you for helping sick and injured working animals like Jack receive the care they need to live free from pain and suffering.