Should animals be used in Tourist Attractions?

Animal tourism has long been a controversial topic, with arguments on both sides of the
issue. While some consider it to be an educational and economic boon, others raise cancers
about animal welfare and ethical considerations. In this essay, we will explore the arguments
for and against using animals in tourist attractions, examine case studies, and discuss
alternative forms of tourism that do not involve animals.

Those in favor of using animals in tourist attractions argue that it provides economic benefits,
such as job creation, and can serve as an educational opportunity for visitors. Additionally,
animal tourism can promote conservation efforts by raising awareness of endangered
species and their habitats. For example, an elephant ride may provide a unique opportunity
to learn about the animal’s behavior and habitat.

On the other hand, there are many arguments against using animals in tourist attractions.
One of the primary concerns is animal welfare. Many animals used in tourism are subjected
to cruel and inhumane treatment, such as being kept in small cages or tanks and being
forced to perform unnatural behaviors. Moreover, animal tourism can have a negative impact
on animal populations, such as over-fishing of dolphins for shows or the hunting of tigers for
petting and photo opportunities. Additionally, there are ethical considerations around using
animals for human entertainment, and whether it is morally justifiable to do so.

To better understand the impact of animal tourism, let’s examine some case studies.
Elephant rides, a popular tourist attraction in many countries, have come under scrutiny for
their treatment of the animals. In many cases, elephants are subjected to abusive training
methods and are forced to carry tourists in heavy chairs for hours on end. Dolphin and whale
shows, while entertaining for visitors, often involve the capture and confinement of highly
intelligent animals in small tanks, resulting in stress and shortened lifespans. Tiger petting
and photo ops, another popular attraction, lead to the breeding of tigers in captivity, which
can fuel the illegal wildlife trade and lead to their mistreatment.

So, what are some alternative forms of tourism that don't involve animals? Ecotourism, for
example, focuses on responsible and sustainable travel that benefits local communities and
supports conservation efforts. Cultural tourism allows visitors to experience the traditions
and customs of a region without exploiting animals. Adventure tourism, such as hiking or
kayaking, offers exciting and active travel opportunities without the need for animal
exploitation.

In conclusion, the use of animals in tourist attractions is a complex issue with no easy
answers. While there are economic benefits and educational opportunities associated with
animal tourism, there are also concerts about animal welfare, negative impacts on
populations, and ethical considerations. Alternative forms of tourism that do not involve
animals, such as ecotourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism, offer exciting and
responsible travel opportunities without the need for animal exploitation. Ultimately, it is up to
individuals and society as a whole to decide what kind of tourism we want to support, and
what kind of world we want to create for all living beings.
Works Cited

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Moorhouse, Tom P., et al. "Wildlife Tourism as a Driver of Raptor Crime in Scotland."
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Sands, Andrew. "The Ethics of Dolphin Assisted Therapy." Journal of Medical Ethics, vol. 30,
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Schmidt-Rogers, Judith. "Elephant Rides: A Review of the Economics and Conservation."

Journal of Sustainable Tourism, vol. 24, no. 9, 2016, pp. 1235–1251.

Smith, Richard J., and J. Edward Taylor. "Eco-Tourism and Rural Development: New Voices,
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Stewart, Emma L., and Susan C. Rhinehart. "The Dark Side of Tourism: Tiger Breeding for
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