Countries where the mistreatment of animals is commonplace are unlikely to be visited a second time by animal-loving British tourists, according to the findings of a recent study.
Around 52 percent of British travellers have stated that witnessing mistreatment of animals can put them off visiting a foreign country for a second time, according to a YouGov survey commissioned by the global animal charity, SPANA (the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad).
Around one in five British adults reported witnessing the mistreatment of animals while on an overseas holiday, but around three-quarters of these travellers had made no attempt to report the incident to the authorities. Around 71 percent of them said that they had witnessed the mistreatment of animals involved in the tourism industry.
SPANA supporter and animal lover, Ann Widdecombe, said, ‘I’m absolutely appalled that so many people are seeing animals used in the tourism industry being mistreated when on holiday abroad.
As a self-proclaimed nation of animal lovers we need to stop animals used in the tourism industry suffering for the sake of our enjoyment by following advice from animal charities like SPANA.’
The survey also reported that around one in four British travellers have taken part in an activity involving an animal, such as a camel safari or horse and carriage ride, while on holiday abroad, and has felt concern for the welfare of the animals.
SPANA is offering an ethical animal tourism guide for travellers, and is asking British travellers visiting overseas destinations to learn more about animal welfare before participating in activities that involve animals.
