The Working Animals International strategy for 2023-27 outlines the approach the charity will take in the next five years.
A century after the founding of Working Animals International (formerly SPANA), the need for our work has never been greater. Rising global poverty and inequality are leaving owners struggling to care for, feed and even keep their animals. Other risks, such as zoonotic diseases, rising political and economic instability, and welfare threats like the donkey skin trade, are creating further challenges for working animals. And the ongoing impact of climate change is proving particularly difficult on countries which rely on working animals.
As demand for our help increases, we are facing increased competition for income amid a global economic recession.
Our strategy explains how we will rise to these challenges – and achieve more for working animal welfare without an equivalent increase in resources.
While Working Animals International will continue to provide veterinary treatment, education and training, it will also work to transform working animal welfare through new projects and partnerships that can deliver sustainable change.
Our strategy has three core goals:
Goal 1 – Welfare
The quality of life improves for working animals globally, at a greater scale than ever before.
Goal 2 – Worth
The contribution working animals make to people across the world is recognised and valued.
Goal 3 – World
The world of working animals thrives and grows sustainably, as part of the nexus of animals, people and the environment.
These goals are underpinned by a fourth, enabling goal:
Goal 4 – Harnessing our global potential
Our charity builds its reputation and effectiveness as a pioneering, modern and global organisation, while delivering transformative change for working animal welfare.
A strategy that fulfils our vision
As part of our new strategy, we will continue to ensure the treatment of working animals in need. We will also continue to ensure the training of owners in animal care and the teaching of children about animal welfare. We will expand our emergency capacity in response to the expanded need, primarily tied to climate change related issues such as droughts and floods. And we will work to build local capacity of animal welfare services provision and quality assurance activities.
Ultimately, our new strategy will enable Working Animals International to pursue its mission and fulfil our vision:
Our mission is to transform the welfare of working animals in a world where animals, people and the environment are respected and thrive.
Our vision is a world where every working animal lives a healthy and valued life.