Animal rights concerns lead to ban on overweight tourists riding donkeys in Greece

While use of animals for certain purposes has been going on for ages, animal rights activists are now calling for an end to abuse. Donkeys are still used as a way to transport goods or carry people in some parts of the world.

But authorities in Greece have now banned overweight tourists from travelling on donkeys after it left the animals with spinal injuries. The step followed images of obese tourists being carried up the narrow steps of Santorini.

The regulations state that donkeys giving rides to tourists should not be made to carry load weighing more than 100 kg. Campaigners alleged that the animals were being made to carry heavy loads while working long hours seven days a week without shelter and rest.

The regulations also made it clear that animals not fit for work should not be used and they should get adequate food and fresh water every day. Donkeys have been the traditional means of transport on the Island of Santorini known for a hilly terrain.