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Brooke’s Responsible Tourism Campaign Gains Support
Not all equine animals used in the tourist trade are kept in the best welfare conditions. Photo courtesy of Martin Usbourne.
The Brooke’s Responsible Tourism for Animals campaign has gained the support of Thomas Cook UK & Ireland. The campaign, now in its second year, calls on all tourists to take action by pledging support and following the Brooke’s Happy Horses Holiday Code.

The Responsible Tourism for Animals campaign urges tourists to think and act responsibly, especially in regard to equine animals employed in the tourist trade. To support the campaign Thomas Cook UK & Ireland has included the Happy Horses Holiday Code in its resort information provided to holidaymakers, in destinations where donkeys and horses are used.

Here are some simple questions taken from the Brooke’ Happy Horses Holiday Code which every tourist should ask before riding on one of the many equine animals promoted to tourists:
 
  • Is the animal happy and healthy?
  • Can it carry/ pull my weight?
  • Am I paying a fair price?
 
Andy Cooper, Director of Government & External Affairs at Thomas Cook Group, said, “Thomas Cook UK & Ireland has been actively addressing sustainability issues for many years. We take responsible tourism very seriously, so we are delighted to support the Brooke’s campaign.”

Some equine animals in the tourist trade are forced to carry more weight than they should. Photo courtesy of Martin Usbourne.
Kimberly Wells from Brooke’s Animal Welfare team adds: “When people travel overseas their excitement of being on holiday can often overshadow consideration for the welfare of horses and donkeys they use.  Whilst a carriage or donkey ride can be fun and also provide a vital income for animal owners, not every horse and donkey is fit for the journey.
 
 “We are urging tourists to do their bit and work with us to reduce animal suffering across the world. It’s simple: think before you ride! By following the Brooke’s Happy Horses Holiday Code when on holiday, all tourists can help make a huge difference to the lives of working horses and donkeys overseas.”

The Brooke is a UK charity dedicated to alleviating the suffering of horses, donkeys and mules across the developing world. Read more about their work here.

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.