HOLIDAYMAKERS travelling abroad are being urged to help prevent animal cruelty in foreign countries during their trips.

The RSPCA is urging tourists to follow its SOS - Stop Overseas Suffering - code in a bid to tackle the horrific treatment witnessed each year at bullfights and run-down zoos.

Tourists also see starving strays and drugged animals made to pose for photographs with holidaymakers.

Jennifer Butt, the head of the RSPCA's International department, said: "Many tourists returning from abroad feel frustrated that nothing can be done about the dreadful scenes they have witnessed.

"Sadly, many countries have no animal protection legislation which could deal with this cruelty - but people can make a difference when they return home.

"Take down details and complain to the tour representatives. Also, write to the embassy of the country involved, pointing out that your holiday was spoiled by what you saw.

"Tourist revenue is an important source of income in many countries - if the local authorities think it is at risk they are more likely to act."

The SOS code advises:

Try not to feed stray cats and dogs. Donate tinned food or money to a local animal welfare society.

Don't buy mementos produced at an animal's expense.

Don't walk on coral reefs while snorkelling or scuba diving.

Refuse to have your picture taken with chimps, lion cubs or other animals.

Avoid bullfights and venues featuring performing animals.

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