Pattern of Orthopedic Injuries in Working Donkeys in Kano Metropolis: A Clinical Survey

Working donkeys are integral to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and urban traders across northern Nigeria, yet their welfare and orthopedic health remain insufficiently studied. This clinical survey documents the pattern and prevalence of orthopedic injuries in working donkeys within Kano metropolis, located in the North West geopolitical zone. A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and November 2023, during which 310 donkeys were clinically examined at seven key locations including markets, commercial transport routes, and agricultural hubs. Orthopedic conditions were diagnosed based on clinical examination and, where available, radiographic assessment. Lameness was detected in 41.3% of examined animals, with hoof-related disorders constituting the most common primary diagnosis at 46% of lame animals. Lacerations and contusions of the lower limb were present in 28% of cases. Poor farriery, absence of regular hoof trimming, and overloading were identified as major contributory factors. Animals with body condition scores below 2.5 had a significantly higher likelihood of orthopedic pathology. The study found that most owners lacked awareness of basic equine orthopedic care and had limited access to veterinary services. Targeted welfare interventions including mobile veterinary outreach programs and farriery training workshops are recommended for working equid populations in North Western Nigerian urban centers. Baseline data from this survey can inform animal welfare policies for working equids in Nigeria. Keywords: donkey welfare, orthopedic injuries, lameness, Kano, equine surgery.