Der Sommer 2023 sollte für uns ein Wiedersehen mit den Lindos-Eseln bedeuten. Ein Jahr war seit unseren schockierenden Enthüllungen über die schrecklichen Zustände der Esel in Lindos vergangen. Es gab Beteuerungen und Zusicherungen von vielen Seiten. Angeblich sollte sich alles verbessert haben, hieß es in den sozialen Netzwerken. Doch wir wollten es mit eigenen Augen sehen und unser Versprechen an die Esel, bald wieder zu kommen, einlösen. Voller Vorfreude und Optimismus brachen wir erneut nach Rhodos auf. Doch die ersten Eindrücke in Lindos trafen uns wie ein Schlag ins Gesicht. Erschöpfte Esel schleppten sich in der brütenden Hitze, mit viel zu schweren Touristen am Rücken, den steilen Weg zur Akropolis hinauf. Auch an der Eselstation im Hafen fanden wir erneut dasselbe erschütternde Bild vor: Esel, kurz angebunden und der gnadenlosen Hitze ausgesetzt, während ihre Besitzer sich im Schatten erholten und kühle Getränke genossen. Unsere Empörung wuchs, als wir bemerkten, dass nur weni...

 Tourist killed by donkey. https://greekreporter.com/2015/10/08/tourist-in-santorini-killed-by-donkey/

 All working horses, donkeys and mules should be offered water regularly, and given plenty of time to drink as much as they need. On average, a donkey needs to drink between 18-35 litres of water a day, more if they are working in hot conditions https://www.thebrooke.org/our-work/water-provision https://en.wikivet.net/Water_Requirements_-_Donkey

 Tourist killed by suffering donkey. https://greekreporter.com/2015/10/08/tourist-in-santorini-killed-by-donkey/ As you are on vacation, you let yourself enjoy the beautiful scenery. You put your kid and yourself on a donkeys taxi under the burning heat. And that without a helmet. But when your kid goes on his little bike you ask him to put a helmet.  The way to Acropolis is not flat, full of stones. Did you ever asked you if the donkey guides had First aid classes in case some people where injured ? Or just felt bad because of the heat on a waving donkey ? Or if donkey guides had at least some notions of equine behaviours ? And equine needs ? Or equine care assistance in first aid ? Because an injured equine can follow his path no matter what, and jump into the cliff. Of you noticed, a lot of donkeys are not leaded by a rope and are left to your own right on the edge of the cliff...

Proposal: Establishment of an Action Group to Promote Respectful Coexistence in Greece We propose the creation of an interdisciplinary group consisting of experts in animal welfare, sustainable tourism, and local development, in collaboration with representatives from local communities and animal protection organizations. This group will be tasked with developing concrete initiatives to improve the relationship between Greece, animal protection, and the development of ethical tourism. Key Objectives: 1. Awareness: Implement awareness programs for local residents, tourists, and tourism professionals to promote respect for animals and raise awareness about the benefits of ethical tourism.     2. Legislation and Regulation: Develop specific regulations for animal welfare in the tourism sector, with a long-term goal of phasing out practices such as taxi-donkeys and horse-drawn carriages that may be detrimental to animal well-being. 3. Training: Provide training for tourism stakeho...

A donkey is about 250 kg. He can only load a charge of 1/5 of his weight.  250/5= 50 kg. should be he limit of supportable weight ! Put also the weight of the saddle wich is approximately 40kg. That's a kid's weight ! Some tourist weight more the double, and donkeys owners should take action about this as the governement in greece urged them. Otherwise it's animal abuse.  https://farmandanimals.com/how-much-weight-can-a-donkey-carry/ Greece bans overweighted tourists to ride donkeys. https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/travel/article/overweight-tourists-donkeys-greece-intl/index.html https://www.rtl.de/cms/eseltaxi-in-mijas-in-andalusien-menschen-ueber-80-kilo-duerfen-nicht-mehr-auf-eseln-reiten-4437114.html?utm_campaign=post&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=editorial https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/greece-bans-fat-tourists-riding-13391209 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/apr/02/tourists-avoid-riding-donkeys-santorini-steps https://www.keeptalkinggreece.com/2023/07...

 Dear fellow human beings, We have noticed your engagement with our posts and images, and we are truly grateful for your participation. Today, we want to address important matters that concern us all. Our aim is to find a solution that benefits everyone, fostering a sense of unity and harmony. Instead of merely pointing out the negatives, we believe in a proactive approach. Our goal is to discover and implement viable, long-lasting solutions to the challenges we face. We encourage you to share your thoughts and reactions with us, as your perspective matters deeply. How do you feel about the issues we discuss? Your emotions and sentiments are invaluable to us. Through open dialogue, we can better understand each other's experiences and perspectives, leading to a stronger, more empathetic community. So, we ask you, what do you want? What solutions do you envision? Your input matters greatly in shaping our collective path forward. Together, we can brainstorm, contemplate, and innovate...

  https://news.gtp.gr/2019/08/14/greek-tax-authority-urges-tourists-ask-receipts/ When you do a donkey ride ask for a receipt ! And send us a picture! Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) has  once again  launched its  “Apodixi Please”  campaign, which informs tourists of their  consumer rights  and urges them to  ask for receipts  with their transactions in Greece. Tourists are also informed that they are not obliged to pay if they do not receive a receipt.

  https://www.theanimalreader.com/2022/06/04/news-animal-protest-on-the-greek-island-of-rhodes-against-the-lindos-taxis/ https://sentientmedia.org/in-europe-authorities-struggle-to-enforce-animal-protection-laws/ https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/greece-bans-fat-tourists-riding-13391209 https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-6878467/Santorini-launches-campaign-stop-holidaymakers-riding-donkeys-village-steps.html https://www.keeptalkinggreece.com/2019/07/17/activist-attacked-donkeys-santorini-nfa/ https://pappaspost.com/santorini-tourists-stop-riding-donkeys/ https://greekreporter.com/2015/10/08/tourist-in-santorini-killed-by-donkey/ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7224005/Shocking-footage-shows-donkeys-whipped-beaten-forced-carry-Santorini.html https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/articles/tourists-urged-to-reconsider-riding-donkeys-in-santorini/ https://www.peta.org.uk/features/santorini-donkeys/ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7...

 We thank gratefully the people who sign the petition for the donkeys already in 4 countries in Europe! And the followers of our Facebook, Instagram and YouTube pages. And for your donations. We apologies also for the basic quality of this website. We are real people who try to help the donkeys by working on it almost everyday.

Rhodes: Acropolis of Lindos to Become Wheelchair-Friendly People with mobility problems will soon be able to access the citadel at Lindos, the site of the ancient sanctuary dedicated to the cult worship of Athena, on Rhodes' eastern coast. https://www.greece-is.com/news/rhodes-acropolis-lindos-become-wheelchair-friendly/ Athen Acropolis has already one. https://athensbylocals.com/acropolis-disabled-access-use-of-the-acropolis-elevator/

Dear all, I have learned with sadness and indignation that the situation of the donkeys in Lindos continues to be a matter of concern for the public. It is disheartening to know that despite the outcry from people all over, the mistreatment of these animals persists, particularly with their use for tours to the acropolis. The daily suffering endured by these donkeys, subjected to harsh working conditions, goes against the principles of responsible and ecological tourism. The picturesque village of Lindos, known for its charm and beauty, should not be tainted by the presence of maltreated and poorly cared-for animals. It is alarming to witness how some individuals disregard the well-being of these sensitive creatures, which are an essential part of Greek heritage. As proud inhabitants of Lindos and guardians of our traditions, we must unite to protect these animals and preserve our environment. I urge the local authorities, veterinary services, and the entire Lindos community to take a ...

Subject: Complaint regarding the mistreatment of donkeys in Lindos   Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to express my deep concern about the alarming situation of the donkeys in Lindos. This situation has persisted for several years and represents a tradition that should no longer be tolerated. According to recent testimonies and investigations, the donkeys in Lindos are held in unbearable and miserable conditions, which do not comply with the European laws on animal detention. These innocent creatures are subjected to inhumane and cruel treatment, which is unacceptable. Among the serious violations of these animals' rights, the following points can be highlighted along with alternative suggestions for improvement: 1. The donkeys are forced to work long hours under the sun and very high temperatures, leading to exhaustion and inadequate opportunities to hydrate and rest.  Suggestion: Provide regular breaks and resting periods in shaded areas to ensure their well-being. 2. During the...

Donkeys may not show obvious signs of thirst and will maintain appetite even when dehydrated.  250kg donkey at maintenance needs to drink  10-22.5 litres of fresh water each day at rest . These requirements may vary depending on the diet and will be significantly increased during warm weather and during lactation.  https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/sites/uk/files/2020-02/Nutrition-feeding-and-water-guidelines.pdf https://veteriankey.com/practical-donkey-and-mule-nutrition/   https://en.wikivet.net/Water_Requirements_-_Donkey Donkey Depressed in submission, distress and pain attitude Healthy interested attitude 

A horse or a donkey are animals and animals can have strong unpredictable behaviors. How can a mother let her kid ride a donkey without a helmet ?  But the mother will certainly ask her kid to put a helmet when riding a bicycle. A donkey is by the way, at least two times higher. The same when kids rides poneys. https://road-safety.transport.ec.europa.eu/statistics-and-analysis/statistics-and-analysis-archive/young-people/helmets-and-other-safety-equipment_en Also be notified, that in most cases, your insurance will not come into discussion if  you didn’t wear a helmet. And we talk here about head, shoulders, etc, injuries that take several months to recover. You might loose your job too.

  Depressed behavior:  ears back with asymmetrical positions and low head with semi-closed eyes. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7931104/ https://horseandrider.com/horse-health-care/your-horses-facial-expression-can-signal-hes-in-pain/ https://equimed.com/news/general/recognizing-facial-expressions-of-a-horse-in-pain-new-diagnostic-tool

Dear authorities of Lindos and Santorini villages, Dear Members of the European Parliament, I am writing to you with deep concern regarding the use of donkeys for tourist purposes in the beautiful villages of Lindos and Santorini in Greece. It is my duty to raise this issue, not only at the local level but also with the Greek authorities and the European Parliament, to highlight the urgency of taking measures to protect the welfare of animals and comply with European standards in this regard. Greece undeniably holds a rich historical heritage, and some cultural traditions are an integral part of the national identity. However, it is crucial to recognize that certain practices, such as using donkeys for tourism, have become outdated and are incompatible with contemporary values of respect for animals and nature. Over the years, the world has evolved and embraced a more responsible attitude towards animals. Unfortunately, the exploitation of donkeys for tourism is now regarded as an arch...

Of course, your signature will ONLY be used for the petition and will not be shared. Sign here   and please share also here: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/fr-fr/458/371/116/stop-donkey-rides-in-lindos-rhodes/

 Subject: Call for Vigilance in Promoting Animal-Related Tourism Activities Dear tourism stakeholders, We hope this letter finds you well. As key players in the tourism industry, you have a vital role to play in ensuring the preservation of our environment and the well-being of all living beings with whom we share this planet. Recently, we have witnessed a series of alarming complaints on social media concerning the mistreatment of animals in the context of tourism activities. We are writing to urge you to exercise extreme vigilance in the promotion and presentation of tourism activities involving animals. It is essential to recognize that these living beings are sentient creatures, with specific needs, and deserve to be treated with care and compassion. Indeed, certain animal-related tourism practices have been questioned for their negative impact on animal welfare. Disturbing images circulating on social media have revealed cruel treatment, inadequate living conditions, and even ...

 Petition: Stop Animal Abuse in the European Tourism Industry To the Honorable Members of the European Parliament, We, the undersigned, draw your attention to a distressing situation that deeply concerns many European citizens: the mistreatment and poor living conditions of animals in the tourism industry. As elected representatives of the European people, we urgently request you to take concrete measures to end this animal suffering and enforce the existing laws regarding animal protection within the tourism industry. The tourism industry, which attracts millions of visitors to Europe each year, must not be a breeding ground for animal abuse and neglect. We have been alarmed by recurring reports of inadequate living conditions in zoos, circuses, tourist attractions, and animal rides. These innocent creatures are forced to live in confined spaces with limited access to water and proper nutrition. The consequences of this animal exploitation are devastating. Animals suffer immensely...

 Subject: Request to address the alarming situation of animal mistreatment and poor living conditions in the tourism industry Dear Honorable Members of the European Parliament, We are writing to bring to your attention a distressing situation that deeply concerns many European citizens: the mistreatment and poor living conditions of animals in the tourism industry. As elected representatives of the European people, we urge your commitment to uphold the laws established by the European Community concerning animal protection and to take urgent measures to put an end to this animal suffering. The tourism industry, which attracts millions of visitors to Europe each year, unfortunately has been marred by repeated cases of animal mistreatment and negligence. Zoos, circuses, tourist attractions, and animal rides sometimes subject animals to inadequate living conditions, confining them to restricted and inappropriate spaces, with limited access to water and proper nutrition. Such inadequat...

Report abuse We are not able to provide direct urgent assistance, call a vet near you as soon as possible. Animals have rights, please insist. Horse dies in the street in Corfu. https://www.keeptalkinggreece.com/2023/07/06/heartbreaking-carriage-horse-dies-in-the-middle-of-downtown-corfu/ https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02YmLzRJrTHT1uH5RJhRBrZmoZGmNPL9WKpwKntH1BnuMdfWwYu5BUacdWiXTiF6Snl&id=100064855173582&sfnsn=mo HORSE ACCIDENTS  Verein VGT: Listing of horse carriage accidents in Austria (an excerpt) https://vgt.at/presse/news/2018/news20181019mn_2.php Organization PETA: Listing of horse carriage accidents in D, AUT and Switzerland https://www.peta.de/themen/pferdekutschenunfaelle/ Horse race Palio Siena Italy every year https://youtu.be/z4Lncus5Aoc Horse race on concrete in the streets of Malta  https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/pets/animal-liberation-malta-slam-santa-marija-horse-racing-tradition-as-outdated-cruel-and-unnecessary/ Animal Liberation...

  https://www.fondation-droit-animal.org/la-fondation/declaration-universelle-droits-de-lanimal/

https://www.animalactiongreece.org/advice-and-welfare/equines/?fbclid=IwAR2HJG0yxR2FSPiYIpwEeR6Hsq5o3nSLf1nMPkBo2cpLC7JNN   https://happyears.org/ https://www.animalrising.org/

 GREEK LAW https://www.paws.gr/laws-on-animal-welfare https://www.naws.gr/info/legislation EUROPEAN LAW https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/animal-welfare#:~:text=Harmonised%20EU%20rules%20are%20in,time%20of%20stunning%20and%20slaughter. https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/animal-welfare#:~:text=Harmonised%20EU%20rules%20are%20in,time%20of%20stunning%20and%20slaughter. https://www.coe.int/en/web/cdcj/protection-of-animals#:~:text=The%20European%20Convention%20for%20the%20Protection%20of%20Pet%20Animals%20(ETS,boarding%2C%20keeping%20of%20pet%20animals. https://animallaweurope.com/ https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/animal-welfare https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-welfare_en https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/STUD/2017/583114/IPOL_STU(2017)583114_FR.pdf https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/fr/headlines/society/20200624STO81911/protection-et-bien-etre-des-animaux-les-regles-de-l-ue-expliquees-videos https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/chemic...

  https://www.coe.int/en/web/cdcj/protection-of-animals#:~:text=The%20European%20Convention%20for%20the,particular%20in%20intensive%20breeding%20systems.

  https://www.bbc.co.uk/ethics/animals/rights/rights_1.shtml

  Subject: Urgent Call to End the Use of Donkeys and Horses in Touristic Transport Dear concerned parties, I hope this message reaches you with a sense of urgency and deep concern for the welfare of animals in the tourism industry. We are writing to address a pressing and distressing issue that demands immediate attention – the continued use of donkeys and horses in touristic transport, despite numerous cases of tragic deaths due to mistreatment. As advocates for animal welfare and compassionate travelers, we cannot turn a blind eye to the alarming reports of mistreatment and fatalities suffered by these gentle creatures. The current practices of overworking, overloading, and subjecting donkeys and horses to harsh conditions have resulted in devastating consequences, causing suffering and loss of life. The European Commission's website on animal welfare emphasizes the need to treat animals with respect and consideration in all human activities. It is evident that the present state ...