Maysa’s Story: Healing, hope and a healthier future
Maysa, a three‑year‑old donkey from a small village near Chemaia in Morocco, recently received life‑changing help from Working Animals International (formerly SPANA).
Her owner, Hajji, relies on her every day to fetch fresh water for his family — himself, his wife and their four children. The water source is 6km away, a long and exhausting walk, especially in the sweltering heat. Maysa’s work is essential to their daily life, and her wellbeing means everything to the family.
One day, Hajji noticed Maysa was limping and struggling to walk. Concerned, he brought her to the Chemaia centre, run by the charity’s senior partner. The veterinary team examined her and found she had a severe harness wound that had become infected, threatening both her health and her ability to work.
The team cleaned and treated the wound, removed damaged tissue, and provided pain relief and antibiotics to fight the infection. They asked Hajji to return with Maysa for regular check‑ups over the following weeks to make sure she continued to heal well.
Hajji said: “Without Working Animals International, where would I go? It would be hopeless. There is nowhere else to go — my donkey wouldn’t have had treatment.”
His words show just how vital access to veterinary care is for families who depend on their working animals for essentials like drinking water. Thanks to supporters like you, Working Animals International can continue providing this care, ensuring animals like Maysa recover fully and stay healthy.
Beyond treatment, the charity is creating long‑term change. Working Animals International works closely with owners, harnessing specialists and local partners to improve harness fit and prevent wounds. Their workshops are designed to be practical and accessible, helping owners make simple but effective changes that protect their animals from pain and injury.
For Maysa, this means her wounds can heal fully and she can continue supporting Hajji and his family. For Hajji, learning how to fit harnesses safely means he can prevent future injuries — keeping Maysa comfortable, healthy and able to work.
This approach strengthens whole communities, helping owners care for their animals with confidence now and in the future.