Advances in Donkey and Mule Research.

Summary

# Editorial Summary: Advances in Donkey and Mule Research Despite comprising roughly half of the world's domestic equine population, donkeys and mules remain substantially underrepresented in veterinary and equine science literature, particularly regarding their welfare, health management, and practical husbandry needs. Martins-Bessa and McLean's 2024 review synthesises current evidence across multiple disciplines—including veterinary medicine, nutrition, behaviour, and working performance—to identify critical gaps in our understanding of these species and highlight research priorities moving forward. The authors demonstrate that many management protocols, nutritional recommendations, and training methodologies have been extrapolated from horse research without validation in donkeys and mules, potentially leading to suboptimal or inappropriate care. Their findings emphasise that the biomechanical, metabolic, and behavioural differences between these species and horses are substantial enough to warrant species-specific investigation and professional guidance. For practitioners working with donkeys and mules, this work underscores the importance of evidence-based practice tailored to these animals' distinct physiology and the necessity for continued research investment to improve welfare and performance outcomes globally.

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Key Findings

• •Donkeys and mules comprise approximately 50% of the global domestic equine population
• •These animals play an essential role in the lives of thousands of people, primarily in developing countries