Gumtree's decision to say neigh to online sale of donkeys welcomed by NSPCA

The NSPCA has lauded an announcement by Gumtree that it is to ban the sale of donkeys‚ mules and their byproducts.

A spokesperson for the popular online advertising platform said on Monday that the ban was a significant step towards the company’s ultimate goal of having no live animals traded online.

Recently there has been a surge in the sale of donkeys‚ and their skin in particular‚ on the Asian market. “The donkey skin issue has brought the matter to the fore‚” said Christine Kuch of the NSPCA.

“It is a major step forward that Gumtree has taken and for this we support and thank them. They have taken the lead on this issue and deserve credit for recognising the implications and effect of internet advertising of this kind.”

Animal organizations such as the NSPCA have flagged the unethical sale of animals in an unregulated market. According to the NSPCA‚ online sales encourages dubious practices including backyard breeding‚ as well as trading in wildlife and exotic animals.

- TMG Digital/The Times