This study aimed to describe how to train dromedary camels to self-load and unload using positive-reinforcement-based training and to examine its effects on behavior and welfare. Twelve camels, six unbroken male camels (group A) and six broken mixed-gender camels (group B), underwent nine days of positive reinforcement training, after an initial day of behavioral tests. The training session included six phases: loading the clicker, approaching the truck, ramp, truck, unloading, and returning to the station. Eye temperature was measured before and after training using infrared thermography, and training was recorded for further behavioral analysis. Overall, eight camels (66.7%) loaded and unloaded successfully at least once. The average total and daily training duration were 72 and 8.5 min per camel, respectively, with the fastest camel able to load taking only 30 min of total training over five days. Loading the clicker phase decreased by 41% per additional training day (p < 0.001) and was higher in camels that completed the training session compared to unsuccessful individuals (p = 0.027). Similarly, the time required to approach the truck decreased significantly across training days (p < 0.001). Training day had no effect on the duration of the ramp phase; however, this phase was overall shorter in the group of successful camels (p = 0.038). Loading inside the truck increased by 50% with each additional training day (p = 0.007). Camels in group B had significantly lower maximum eye temperatures than those in group A (p = 0.019), with no significant effect of day or time (p = 0.373). In conclusion, our study shows that training dromedary camels to self-load and unload is possible and does not increase eye temperature. It could mitigate transport stress, improving the safety of handlers and camels.

The number of donkeys in Europe has significantly declined in recent decades due to mechanization; however, recently, the demand for donkey milk and other purposes has led to a slight increase in their population. However, information on how they are kept and managed, and their welfare is limited. This review aimed to explore the husbandry, management, and welfare of donkeys (Equus asinus) across European Union member states, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) technique was used. The search was conducted using Scopus and Web of Science, identifying 797 records that were screened using titles, keywords, and abstracts, resulting in 78 retained records. An additional 19 records were identified using snowballing and experts’ suggestions, bringing the total to 97. Dairy donkeys have been studied mainly in Italy, and there they are usually managed under extensive to semi-intensive husbandry systems. Donkeys involved in human intervention therapies are generally managed semi-intensively. Based on the literature, most donkeys are provided with shelter and outdoor access, and this can be with or without pasture, except the free-range donkeys that graze year-round. Health and management-related issues (e.g., obesity, dental disorders, and hoof disorders) could be overlooked, potentially compromising their welfare. The feeding management of donkeys is generally traditional and poorly studied, relying mainly on forages supplemented with concentrates. Most donkeys suffer from overweight/obesity except for lactating donkeys, which are often underweight. This may indicate unbalanced feeding practices. Improved understanding of housing and feeding management is essential for establishing evidence-based welfare guidelines tailored to the donkeys’ species-specific needs.

Welfare implications of repeated blood collection from pregnant mares for equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) production remain debated. This study aimed to describe mare-management practices in a sample of Icelandic farms, investigating behavioural responses to blood collection and associated management conditions using publicly available video footage. The analysis was performed while the mares were kept on pasture, as well as during the pre-collection waiting period and blood collection. A Fear, Anxiety and Stress (FAS) score (from 0 = relaxed to 5 = severe signs of FAS with aggression) was also assigned to each blood collection phase. Although limited, pasture observations highlighted generally good physical condition of mares and foals, with normal social behaviour. Mares waited an average of 1 h 40 min before blood collection, and greater pen crowding was associated with increased negative interactions among mares (p = 0.031). The blood collection procedure lasted about 8 min on average (range: 5.2–15.4 min). Most mares exhibited moderate to severe FAS during blood collection, with a significant effect of the phase (LRT p < 0.001). Blood draw was the phase with the highest likelihood of showing higher FAS scores in comparison with waiting time (OR = 9.91, 95% CI: 4.08–20.5). A significant increase in a depressed-like, non-responsive demeanour was recorded during more invasive handling phases (all p < 0.05). Even if our findings are limited by the nature of the analysed videos, this study identifies potential welfare concerns, including restrictive head positioning, incomplete post-venipuncture care, and continuation of procedures despite severe behavioural signs of stress.