You will find information on what you can do at every stage of your trip including what to avoid, what to do should you encounter cruelty while traveling, and animal-friendly travel ideas.

Travel Do's

By participating in animal-friendly activities while on vacation, compassionate travelers can enjoy witnessing animals behaving in the way that nature intended without causing harm to them. Some activities compassionate travelers can engage in include:

Exploring volunteer vacation opportunities where travelers can help animals while abroad.

Visiting nature reserves and national parks.

Taking a responsible wildlife watching tour.

Getting close to your favorite animals by using binoculars or cameras and camcorders with telephoto (zoom) lenses.

Donating to local animal shelters, sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation centers.

Reporting animal mistreatment and cruelty.

Supporting the local animal shelter or humane society by contacting them ahead of time to ask if they need supplies like old blankets, towels, toys etc. See a list of animal organizations in your destination.

Travel Don'ts

Inhumane capture methods, poor nutrition, high levels of stress, and inadequate welfare conditions often lead to a premature death for captive animals. Sadder still, the animal-loving tourists who pay for personal encounters actually perpetuate the suffering of these amazing animals who may have been working for hours, with no access to shelter, food or water. Festivals that use animals are a cruel reality across many parts of the world and are responsible for the deaths and maiming of thousands of animals each year. Don't pay to witness animal cruelty.

Download the Compassionate Travel Guide brochure series:

Tips for Tourists (PDF)
Tourism and Wildlife Trade (PDF)
Dolphin Encounters (PDF)
A Whale of a Problem (PDF)
Souvenirs to Steer Clear Of
Taboo Foods

Source: World Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Compassionatetravel.org