The study devised a simplified livelihood approach to analyse the role of livestock in the livelihoods of the poor .The research found that livestock were proportionally more important to the livelihood of the poor than the better off. The dynamics and role of livestock as a form of social capital appear to be changing. Livestock gifts were most often utilised as a means of gaining social approbation rather than a risk mitigation strategy. In regards to the delivery of veterinary services, access rather than affordability was the most significant constraint. Finally, the study utilised discourse analysis techniques to understand perceptions of poverty. The findings underline the notions of the 'deserving' and 'undeserving' poor at the community level.