Well – the fruit of our labours is finally out there and we’re waiting with bated breath for mature results to chew on. Earlier this year, Brad and I went out to India with the Brooke, who provide veterinary services for working horses and donkeys in developing countries. We were there with the Brooke's Sharon Schofield, shooting their first DRTV ad in the brick kilns on the eastern outskirts of Delhi.

It was an amazing trip, and several things will stay with us. Firstly, the dedication of the Brooke's veterinary staff, who show the animals they see such kindness and respect. Also, the way they show the animals’ owners how to treat and prevent some of the conditions that are common to working animals in such a hot climate. Which brings me to the heat. 42 degrees was bad enough, but add to that the heat generated by the earth-covered kilns, where tens of thousands of hand-moulded clay bricks baked in burning coal and woodchips – the soles of Brad’s boots were melting off as he filmed a heat haze sequence on top of one of these. And of course, the stars of the ad… you know the saying ‘never work with animals or children’? You ain’t been there until you’ve tried directing a donkey!

Some snapshots: the fountain of pus released as a vet lanced a 2 litre abcess on a horse’s back… the little 4-year-old kids helping their dads by fetching heavy barrow-loads of clay to make bricks… our hero donkey steadfastly refusing to drink from the specially positioned water trough after a hot day at the kilns (he just wanted his usual old bucket back at his shelter). That's what happens when you cast starring roles based on looks instead of acting ability.

It was really hard work but such an experience and it’s made me into an advocate for the Brooke. If you can really show people what you do, you’ll have supporters for life. If you want to see the ad, just click here.

Nick Couldry