Most of the animal abuse that goes on abroad, is due to profits garnered from western tourists (mostly American, but some in Europe too). To shock you – did you know that British hunters have killed at least 60 more lions since the sad death of Cecil the lion? That’s the power of greed and money abroad. Of course, there are also some issues in England, which we’ll also look at. Most people adore animals, and get upset at seeing animal abuse both at home and abroad. So here are few things that we can collectively do, to make the world more animal-friendly. Responsible Tourism and National Geographic have good tips. Also see tips to be a greener tourist and wildlife-friendly tourist. Also find the best vegan travel resources.
moving on from donkey rides
Alex Clark on Etsy
Donkeys worldwide suffer terribly, due to the fact that they are both very strong and very mild (although they have strong minds). So they are often worked to death, with little food and water. Here, donkeys do have welfare checks for beach rides. But with increasingly heavy children, the bans are getting more stringent. And many modern parents are simply choosing to visit a donkey sanctuary instead, and give their children natural exercise with a walk on the beach.
The Donkey Sanctuary ensures one day off each week for donkeys, and yearly vet checks. But they say standards are not always adhered to. Watch their documentary ‘In Their Hooves’ to see what it’s like to be a working donkey.
alternatives to horse carriage rides
This beautiful horseless e-carriage has been designed by experts, and runs on electric to replace horses that are used in New York’s Central Park, many of which get spooked and injured from traffic. These carriages are beautiful, and would also earn the drivers more money. And the horses could go live out their lives in lovely sanctuaries in the wilderness. Nearly all the major animal charities began over 100 years, after seeing abuse of ‘carriage horses’ being used as taxis through major cities. Today in New York, campaigners want an end to the use of carriage horses in Central Park. No doubt they are cared for by their guardians, but many are killed or injured each year in car accidents, and many also suffer stress & injuries in a very big and noisy city. Learn more on why you should never go for a horse carriage ride.
In 2020, video footage of a horse that stumbled many times in Central Park then collapsed on the pavement, caused outrage. Another spooked horse took off and crashed into 3 parked cars. If you see a carriage horse you are concerned about, report it (in the UK, you can report horse concerns to RSPCA, World Horse Welfare or The British Equine Society). And obviously, never take carriage rides abroad of any animal, many are not well and charities educate on looking after them.
