Our Work in Jordan
July 11, 2025
In the sun-scorched canyons and rocky stone paths of Petra, Jordan, donkeys carry an unbearable burden. In addition to hauling tourists up steep staircases and across rugged terrain, often without rest or water , these gentle animals frequently suffer from illnesses and wounds. The dedicated team at the PETA-supported Petra Veterinary Clinic is the only source of medical help for them and for other working animals in the region. Healing their bodies is only part of the mission; preventing suffering through education is as critical. That’s why the Petra Veterinary Clinic team taught a colic awareness workshop to young men in the village of Umm Sayhoun who will likely inherit animals from their parents.
This Petra Veterinary Clinic Workshop Gave Youngsters a Message That Will Help Build Kinder Future
Colic—an agonizingly painful and often fatal condition caused by digestive impaction —is one of the most serious conditions seen in horses, donkeys, and mules at the Petra Veterinary Clinic. In this hands-on session, Drs. Yazan, and Mohammad and veterinary assistant Mr. Salameh explained the equine digestive system in clear, simple terms and taught the common causes of colic, such as poor feeding routines, a sudden change of diet, and a failure to give water to the animals.
Attendees learned to recognize early symptoms of colic in animals, including:
- Pawing at the ground
- Kicking at their belly
- Lying down
- Rolling
- Loss of appetite
- General distress
Early signs of colic often go unnoticed. By helping handlers recognize pain before animals are noticeably sick, the young people at the lecture can take action faster, ultimately sparing the animals great pain, and even saving their lives.
Many of the young men were familiar with colic, as they’d seen animals suffer from it. Several shared their experiences and their stories reinforced the importance of early intervention.
Take Action: Will You Support PETA’s Global Compassion Fund?
The PETA-supported veterinary clinic in Petra is a lifeline for animals suffering from painful ailments, from lameness to overgrown teeth that prevent digestion, colic, and more. Please donate to our Global Compassion Fund to help all our vital work to provide relief to desperate animals to carry on, and pave the way for a kinder future for animals.