The Brooke Hospital for Animals
Healthy Working Animals for the World's Poorest Communities
Jordan has grown into a modern nation which has enjoyed a remarkable measure of peace, stability and economic growth in recent decades. The ancient city of Petra is home to the main focus of Brooke's work in Jordan.
The clinic in Petra was established in 1988 and is the smallest of Brooke’s operations with only one mobile team, yet it provides vital treatment for the many hundreds of horses and donkeys working in the area.
Petra has its own specific equine welfare problems. As a World Heritage Site, the main economy is tourism - and working animals are a key part of that industry. Some 400 horses in Petra carry tourists to the Siq, the entrance to the ancient city. The floor of the Siq is stony and uneven, causing foot problems, and the animals face long waits in scorching temperatures.
Brooke has helped the owners to build shelters just before the entrance and installed watering facilities. Without the tourist trade the owners would not be able to earn a living, so it is essential for them that their horses do not become sick or lame. Petra's donkeys are used to carry tourists up an exhausting 800-step path to the Al Deir Monastery. Often overloaded, they suffer from heat exhaustion, tail based lesions and foot injuries.
The clinic, situated inside the gates of this ancient site, treats over 700 horses and donkeys in and around Petra. The Brooke has set up a community partnership with the local Horse Owners' Association in which animal owners help run and support the clinic. Now, all costs and maintenance of the water troughs are paid for by the owners, providing evidence of the Brooke's sustainable approach to animal welfare.
Visiting
Please contact the Brooke Hospital prior to visiting to ensure your visit is at a mutually approriate time.
Support Needed
As with most charities a one off or - even better - a regular monthly donation is very welcome. This can be done easily online at www.thebrooke.org or in person at the clinic in Petra.
