Nowzad Nov Update - Mobile Clinic Reaches Rural Afghanistan with Care, Surgery and Humane Harnesses

Nowzad’s dedicated team in Afghanistan has been hard at work throughout October, delivering essential care to animals who depend on them for survival and well-being. 

Through their Working Animal Program and thanks to the generosity of our supporters whose donations make this work possible, Nowzad continues to make a difference for working animals in Kabul and rural communities like Deh Sabz, where resources are scarce, but the need is great.

In October, Nowzad’s veterinarians and staff treated 145 horses and 36 donkeys, many of whom arrived with various health issues that required attention and, in some cases, hospitalisation. The Nowzad team also took their expertise to more remote areas, where their farrier provided care for donkeys and cows, ensuring these animals were in the best condition possible.

With the autumn season underway, Nowzad shifted its focus from vaccinations to a targeted deworming program, addressing a common cause of colic, gastrointestinal problems, and skin conditions. This month alone, 35 animals completed a full deworming treatment, helping to prevent discomfort and illness in the animals.

A significant part of Nowzad’s outreach involves improving animal welfare practices. They distributed 45 humane bits to replace harmful spiked and roller bits, which are often used under the mistaken belief that they make animals work harder.

The team also provided 11 padded harnesses to local owners, showing them how to fit and use these kinder options, which reduce pain and injury for the animals.

Dr. Reshad, Nowzad’s skilled veterinarian, was busy this month with complex surgeries, performing procedures like open castrations and attending to wounds caused by equipment accidents, vehicle mishaps, and even dog bites. His expertise is invaluable in treating these animals and giving them a chance to heal and thrive.

Nowzad built a large sun shelter in Deh Sabz, providing shade relief for animals who endure the intense heat.

Nowzad’s mobile clinic - a 4WD vehicle that can handle rugged terrain, is essential for reaching remote areas and providing services to animals that would otherwise go without care. A short video from the team shows the challenging landscapes they traverse to bring help to those who need it most.

With each visit, every treatment, and each piece of equipment distributed, Nowzad continues to build a safer, healthier world for Afghanistan’s working animals.

Thank you to our supporters, whose kindness and generosity reach across the world, helping to ensure the well-being of working animals.