A popular holiday resort hotspot has decided to ban overweight tourists, and those who might not be overweight but exceed their weight limit, from riding on their donkeys.
The news comes as Spanish municipality of Mijas Pueblo, which belongs to the Costa del Sol region, decided to make major changes in rules and regulations in order to improve the welfare of their animals.
On top of the weight limit – which rests at 80 kilograms (176 pounds) – donkeys will also be given better healthcare consisting of regular veterinary checkups and general hygiene improvements.
The change for the good follows after animal rights activists have been protesting against the awful treatment of donkeys in Mijas for years.
Previously, one animal owner in the region got fired after beating his exhausted donkey who couldn’t get back on its feet to carry tourists. That incident, however, was far from an isolated case.
Speaking of the new ban, El Refugio del Burrito donkey sanctuary director Veronica Sanchez said:
“We are very happy to have reached this point, where the concept of animal welfare is incorporated with specific measures.”
As for the donkey drivers, they have expressed interest in providing better treatment for the animals. According to spokesman Salvador Torres, the drivers share a “vested interest” in changes.
Back in 2014, a 500-pound man got accused of being responsible for the death of the donkey he was sitting on for a prolonged time.
As for other unfortunate donkeys, carrying weight above their limits without proper rest and treatment often results in serious injuries and premature death.
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Replaced!