Donkeys may be the most underappreciated animals out there.  They were essential in the gold rushes that spurred the founding of the western United States, playing critical roles in mining, farming and protecting livestock. Today, donkeys play vital roles in vulnerable communities worldwide, ploughing fields, carrying water and wood, transporting goods to market, providing access to education and are vital sources of income. According to The Donkey Sanctuary, an international equine welfare charity headquartered in Sidmouth U.K., donkeys play essential roles in the livelihoods of an estimated 500 million people in the world’s poorest communities. 
 
Unfortunately, donkeys are being slaughtered by the millions for the gelatin extracted from their hides, ejiao, that is used in the manufacture of traditional Chinese medicines.  Approximately 5.9 million donkeys are rounded up and killed each year simply for their skins.   Sadly, donkeys in this country are sold at auction, held in deplorable conditions, often treated with unimaginable cruelty, and transported impossibly long distances to satisfy the demand for ejiao. Their short lives are filled with fear, hunger, misery and ultimately death.
 
As described in The Donkey Sanctuary’s latest report, Under the Skin Update, the ejiao industry will need half of the world’s current donkey population over the next five years to meet demand.  “The skin trade is the biggest threat to donkey welfare we have ever seen.  Urgent action is needed.” Mike Baker, Chief Executive Officer, The Donkey Sanctuary.