Six-day work, a day off... for British donkeys

London, Apr 4 (UNI) In what may be termed a step to protect animal rights, donkeys in Britain would have to work just six days a week, and a day complete off.

As per the new code of conduct to save beach donkeys from undue stress, the animals can work only six days a week and must have a full day's rest. They must also have a rest of at least one hour at lunchtime or in the early evening.

The code drawn up by the British Equine Vets' Association and The Donkey Sanctuary also says that children weighing more than eight stone would be barred from enjoying the donkey ride dating back to the heyday of Victorian seaside resorts.

The new rule will apply to every one of the 850 seaside donkeys still working in the country. the Daily Telegraph reported.

Action has also been taken against unscrupulous owners, who have tried to use unregistered donkeys by giving them false names. Each animal in the Lancashire resort is micro-chipped so that vets and welfare officers can identify them.

UNI XC ARB HS1707