Known for its nature, culture and a whole host of wildlife, it’s no surprise us Aussies flock to Bali in droves every year. In fact, the little island is officially the most popular holiday spot for Aussies, with around 260,000 of us visiting annually.  

This summer will be no different, and whilst we encourage everyone to appreciate the beauty of the island, we want to share our guidance on how you can make small but impactful changes to the way you holiday and protect a multitude of animals while you do. 

Avoid animal based ‘entertainment’ 

The biggest positive impact you can make when visiting Bali, is by avoiding all animal-based entertainment or experiences that offer direct contact with animals.  

Around the world, the vast majority of experiences and entertainment involving animals cause immense suffering. 

Animals used in entertainment and tourism are often sedated or psychologically ‘beaten’ down to the point of submission to perform unnatural acts against their instincts. When their performances are over, the cruelty continues, with many spending their entire lives trapped in cruel, species-inappropriate conditions, like small concrete cages or crowded, stressful environments.  

Be stray animal aware 

It is not just wild animals that tourists should be aware of when considering their impact in Bali.   

With rabies very much present across several animal species in the island, including bats, monkeys and dogs, it’s important to be aware of how to safely interact with Bali’s local dog population, and take extra care when travelling.  

Whilst many organisations like ours all work to support efforts to eradicate the disease, it is important you also take care to protect yourself and the animals you exist alongside during your trip. 
 
Rabies is a very serious disease, endemic throughout Southeast Asia, that is usually caught from the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most often a dog.  

The rabies virus infects the central nervous system. If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a potential rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, and is fatal if left untreated.

To reduce the risk of bites, it is important not to approach or touch wild or stray animals. Rabid animals may behave strangely or seem unusually tame, but some may not show any signs that they are infected. Be mindful of approaching dogs or cats on the street and take care while running, cycling or riding motorcycles.   

Avoid areas where dogs or cats are being kept, transported, slaughtered, or sold for the meat trade as these animals are often highly stressed, in poor health, and may bite or scratch if approached.  

Avoid dog and cat meat     

Travellers may have a desire to seek new experiences whilst abroad but be aware that some food items can have negative impacts on your health or the communities and environment you are visiting.   

For example, dog and cat meat is consumed in some parts of Indonesia and travellers should be aware of the evidence of the extreme cruelty and high risk and zoonotic diseases associated with the dog and cat meat trade. You can read our full report here.

In Indonesia, it is advised not to eat food items referred to as “B2” or “RW”, which are usually affiliated with dog meat.    

Be an animal lover everywhere you travel 

Many Australians would identify themselves as huge nature and animal lovers, and love seeing animals during their holidays.  

By following the above suggestions, you can avoid unknowingly supporting these systems of animal cruelty and animal abuse, and choose to be a champion for animal welfare, wherever and however you travel.