11:38, 08 May 2025
Words by Abi Scaife, Staff Writer, London
Dr Scott Miller, a rescue vet who regularly graces your TV screens on This Morning, has joined charity Brooke as an ambassador. Brooke is a charity that advocates for the welfare of working animals like donkeys, horses and mules, making this a perfect match.
Known as Rescue Vet online, Dr Scott has spent years building up a reputation as someone who cares about all animals and their treatment.
Smiley News caught up with Dr Scott to hear about his new partnership, and why he is heading to Kenya with Brooke to meet some of the working animals who need care.
As a vet, I’ve always had a strong connection to animals, especially those whose lives are closely tied to people’s. When I learned about Brooke and its work with working horses, donkeys, and mules, I felt an immediate pull. Brooke doesn’t just treat animals but also supports the communities that rely on them. That holistic approach really resonated with me, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it!
Working donkeys are often the silent backbone of communities. They carry water, transport goods, and support families day in and day out. But sadly, they’re usually overlooked when it comes to veterinary care, nutrition, and protection from harsh working conditions. Many suffer from preventable injuries, untreated wounds, lameness, and extreme exhaustion, simply because owners don’t have access to the resources or knowledge to provide proper care.
Because working animals are vital to the survival of millions of people living in poverty. Without them, families can lose their only source of income or access to essentials like water and firewood. Brooke’s work ensures these animals receive the care they need while also educating communities and advocating for better policies. It’s not just animal welfare, it’s human welfare too.
Donkeys are incredibly intelligent, resilient, and gentle animals. People sometimes mistake their calm demeanour for stubbornness, but they’re actually very thoughtful and cautious. It’s part of what keeps them safe in tough environments! They form strong bonds and are capable of deep affection. I wish more people understood how emotionally complex and hardworking they are.
I’m really looking forward to seeing Brooke’s work in action - meeting the teams on the ground, hearing from the communities they support, and of course, spending time with the animals themselves. I want to better understand the challenges they face daily and how sustainable change is being achieved through local partnerships and education.
There are so many ways to help. Donations are always vital, of course, but spreading awareness is just as important, telling people about the role of working animals and the work Brooke does can make a huge difference. You can also fundraise, sponsor a community project, or even leave a gift in your will. Every bit of support helps.
I've always believed that with the privilege of a platform comes the responsibility to use it for good. My career as a vet has shown me how deeply animal welfare is linked to human wellbeing. Giving back is a way to honour that connection and do my part in creating a better, more compassionate world.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
RSPCA. This is the leading animal welfare charity in the UK, and they specialise in animal rescue & furthering the welfare cause for all animals. Find out more here.
Four Paws UK. This charity is an animal welfare organisation, working globally to help animals in need. Learn more here.
Wildlife Justice Commission. This international foundation works to end animal trafficking around the globe. Find out more here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG No Poverty and Life on Land.
