Leading experts from the field of equine welfare are set to deliver a groundbreaking conference resulting in the development of new approaches benefiting working horses and donkeys and their owners.

The Sixth International Colloquium on Working Equids - hosted by the Brooke in Delhi, India – will see keynote speakers from the worlds of international development, social science, human health and education joining animal scientists, vets and field workers.

"Working horses, donkeys and mules are integral to rural transport and food production, distribution and security in developing countries. There are 100 million of these animals in the world and the majority are owned by individuals who use them as their sole or main means of income, so this is a vital topic for discussion.”

- Joy Pritchard, Senior Animal Welfare and Research Advisor for the Brooke UK

Up to two hundred guests from across Europe, Asia, Africa and America are expected to attend the four-day event, comprising lectures and sessions on topics such as 'balancing the needs of humans and animals', 'the ethics of animal use and livelihoods' and 'rural transport and the global context'.

There will be an optional one-day field visit for delegates to see the Brooke’s work in India first-hand.

Since 1991 the International Colloquium on Working Equids has been an important forum for discussing key health, welfare and productivity issues in relation to working horses, donkeys and mules. This conference will provide an excellent opportunity to learn from one another, sharing best practice and ultimately benefiting these working animals worldwide.

The 2010 colloquium is hosted by the Brooke and supported by a scientific committee and sponsors, including UK charities: The Donkey Sanctuary, SPANA, World Horse Welfare and WSPA as well as the University of Bristol in the UK.