Thoughtful Travel and Working Equines

When travelling abroad, many of us will encounter working horses, donkeys, and mules. In some destinations, these animals are a familiar and visible part of daily life - carrying people, pulling carts, or helping visitors access places they might otherwise struggle to reach.

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For those who care about horses, these encounters can be uncomfortable. You may notice animals that look tired, underweight, sore, or poorly equipped, and feel unsure how to respond. It can be distressing to witness, particularly when you feel far from home and removed from the systems that usually protect equine welfare.

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While these situations are complex, tourists are not powerless. In fact, visitors are often in a unique position to influence change - quietly, respectfully, and without confrontation.

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Understanding the Bigger Picture

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In many regions, working equines are not a leisure choice but a vital source of income. Horses and donkeys may be the only means by which an owner can support their family, often in environments where access to veterinary care, quality feed, education, and properly fitting equipment is limited.

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Poor welfare is not always the result of indifference or cruelty. More often, it reflects poverty, lack of resources, or a cycle of survival where immediate needs outweigh long-term wellbeing. Understanding this does not excuse suffering - but it does help us respond with compassion rather than judgement.

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Making Thoughtful Choices as a Tourist

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Small, everyday decisions can make a meaningful difference.

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If you are offered the use of a working horse or donkey:

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Avoid using animals that appear lame, exhausted, underweight, or unwell

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Be cautious of situations where an animal is asked to carry excessive weight, including multiple riders

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Resist bargaining prices down aggressively - savings often come at the cost of the animal’s food, rest, or care

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Choosing not to participate in practices that compromise welfare sends a clear message, even when nothing is said aloud.

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Where possible, you might also consider gently asking questions about the animal or their care. With the help of a tour representative or translator, respectful curiosity can sometimes open conversations rather than create conflict.

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The Role of Tourism

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Tourism plays a significant role in many local economies, and authorities are often keen to protect it. When visitors make it clear that animal welfare matters to them - whether through their choices, feedback, or communication with tour operators - pressure slowly builds for higher standards.

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If you feel able, you can:

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Share concerns with travel companies or tourist boards

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Ask tour operators what welfare guidelines they follow

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Choose experiences and destinations that prioritise ethical animal use

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There are also animal welfare organisations that publish guidance for tourists, and these can be helpful to seek out before travelling.

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Acting with Compassion

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When faced with difficult situations abroad, there is rarely a perfect response. You may not be able to intervene directly, and that can feel frustrating or upsetting.

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What is within your control is how you act.

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Using your own judgement, common sense, and empathy - and making choices that reduce harm where possible - is often the most ethical path available. Even quiet decisions matter.

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By travelling thoughtfully, we can avoid unintentionally contributing to suffering, while supporting a broader shift toward improved welfare for working equines around the world.