THOUSANDS of tourists are unwittingly encouraging cruelty overseas by choosing holiday attractions and souvenirs that profit from animal suffering, the RSPCA has warned.

Already this summer the charity has helped Spanish authorities prosecute the organisers of a fiesta in Benavente by allowing children to goad a young bull.

Bullfights and fiestas are legal in Spain if they adhere strictly to traditions and customs, which includes a ban on children taking part.

New undercover footage filmed by the RSPCA at another fiesta showed spectators going too far by kicking and throwing firecrackers at the bull.

Now as the summer holidays get into full swing the RSPCA is urging tourists to boycott any event which profits from suffering.

Some of the worst cases brought to the RSPCA's attention are the conditions for animals, particularly camels and horses, used in rides and the monkeys, bears and tigers used for tourists to pose for photographs with.

Head of the RSPCA's International Department, David Bowles, said: "It can be very tempting to have a photograph taken with an exotic wild animal or to have a ride on a camel, donkey and horse.

"But, all too often, behind the scenes those animals endure horrendous living conditions and suffer daily cruelty."

The RSPCA is currently working with other animal welfare organisations all over the world providing direct financial aid, training courses and education materials.

Tourists can, according to the RSPCA, help fight cruelty by following these simple holiday tips:

Avoid bullfights, zoos, aquaria, circuses and other venues featuring performing animals.

Do not have your picture taken with wild animals such as chimps, lion cubs or snakes. Many are drugged to make them tame and often have their teeth and claws removed.

Do not buy souvenirs that have been produced at an animal's expense such as ivory, tortoiseshell or coral.

Avoid feeding stray animals. If you want to help, donate tinned food or money to a local animal welfare organisations.