Working animals still 'play vital role' worldwide but most Brits are unaware

Working animals still 'play vital role' worldwide but most Brits are unawareTwo thirds of Brits rarely or never see working animals in their daily life, with many unaware of the vital roles they still play around the worldCommentsNewsAlice Hughes14:18, 22 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesMany Brits are unaware of the work camels and donkeys are responsible for(Image: Working Animals International)Almost half of adults think animals doing work too challenging for humans is a thing of the past - with many unaware camels are still a form of transport, dolphins help detect undersea explosives and goats help clear land to prevent wildfires.‌A poll of 2,000 Brits found 59% rarely, or never, see working animals in their daily life. Yet, according to animal welfare charity Working Animals International – formerly SPANA - donkeys are still used to deliver water where there’s no piped supply, falcons deter other birds at airports and rats help detect landmines.‌The research was commissioned by the animal welfare charity in line with launching its new brand name today (April 22). The research found the majority of adults hadn’t heard of horses being used to take children to school (79%) and donkeys being used as informal ambulances (77%).‌It also found 41% admitted they don’t often, or ever, think about animals being used for work. What’s more, nearly six in 10 (59%) think animals working with humans is something we’ve largely chosen not to think about in society.View 2 ImagesWorking animals are still vital to many global communities(Image: Working Animals International)Linda Edwards, chief executive from the charity said: “The research shows that while many people recognise the importance of working animals, their role in supporting communities around the world is still not widely understood.‌“Working animals such as horses, donkeys, mules, oxen and camels play a vital role in the lives of millions of people.“They help families earn an income, transport goods to market and ensu...