New equine welfare collective shows the benefits of public participation in sharing skills and resources
New equine welfare collective shows the benefits of public participation in sharing skills and resources
Rapti Equine Welfare Group in Ghorahi, within the district of Dang in mid-western Nepal, was established in 2015 under the guidance of the Animal Health Training and Consultancy Service (AHTCS) team with the objective of improving working equine welfare through public participation and awareness. Although initially established solely for this reason, later the group started a savings fund. Now each member deposits a monthly amount of NRs 500 and, in times of need, members can acquire a loan at an affordable interest rate. Monthly group meetings and group discussions are facilitated by the team and various training and advisory sessions regarding equine health and welfare, nutrition, shed management, hoof care, dental care etc. are provided.
According to Mr. Tikaram Chaudhary, treasurer of the group, since the formation and active mobilisation of the group members are very aware of equine health and welfare related issues. Various poor practices were prevalent in the community, such as overloading, beating and harmful traditional practices, but there has been a dramatic change in the owner’s attitudes and practices since the arrival of AHTCS. Better feeding, handling and husbandry practices are being followed. One man – Mr. Krishna Chaudhary – used to administer human urine as a treatment for suspected colic, but is now fully aware of just how wrong this practice is and is keen to adopt change. Every group member is now aware of the availability of professional veterinary services, and is actively seeking them. The group even possess some commonly used animal medicines at home for treating minor ailments and injuries.
At the same time, monthly savings and loan investment have really helped to support the livelihoods and commercial prospects of the members. At present, the group fund stands at a healthy amount. Several group members have received loans to support their livelihoods, health and education. Beside this, with the formation of group, they have gained formal recognition among local governmental officials and can thus access various incentives and subsidies from government.
The change this approach has brought regarding knowledge, attitude and practice of the animal owners is really encouraging. Nevertheless, it’s just the first step towards achieving self-dependency and the ultimate goal of sustainable equine welfare in the long run.
