Washington – September 08, 2026 -- Humane World for Animals, formerly known as the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, has issued a set of travel guidelines aimed at helping tourists avoid attractions that profit from wild animal suffering.
Captive animals face stressful travel and forced public interactions for profit
Nicola White, a wildlife expert at the organization, said captive wild animals are often forced into stressful travel and public interactions marketed as entertainment, conservation or rescue. She said public demand for these encounters drives the capture, breeding and trade of wild animals, subjecting them to significant daily stress with little chance to express natural behaviors.
Circuses and fairs force wild animals into unnatural performances
The group notes that animals used in circuses and fairs are sometimes taken from the wild or separated from their mothers young, and may endure poor housing, minimal veterinary care and little room to exercise. Travelers can reduce demand by skipping any business featuring performing wild animals.
Close contact experiences put both animals and tourists at risk
Activities like riding elephants or camels, swimming with dolphins, or petting conditioned lions can involve physical abuse, overwork and forced confinement. The organization warns that stressed or threatened wild animals can react unpredictably, sometimes with fatal consequences for people.
Tourist photo ops often hide sedation, mutilation and abandonment
Animals like monkeys, young lions and parrots are sometimes displayed at restaurants and hotels for photos, subjected to repeated handling and inadequate food, water and shelter. Some are sedated, caged, or abandoned once they become sick, old or less appealing to visitors; others have teeth or claws removed for handler safety.
Souvenirs made from ivory, fur or coral fuel a global wildlife trade
Products made from animal parts—including ivory, bone, shell, fur, wild animal leather or coral—contribute to a trade that threatens wild populations and damages ecosystems. The organization advises skipping any souvenir if there's uncertainty about its animal-based content, even when sellers claim otherwise.
Social media posts of animal encounters can normalize exploitation
Photos and videos showing people holding or posing with wild animals can make such interactions appear harmless, increasing demand for close encounters and exotic pets. The group recommends against liking or sharing this content and encourages reporting posts depicting animal exploitation.
White said thoughtful travel choices can reduce demand for wildlife exploitation, save animal lives and support more humane tourism practices.