Collette rolls out animal welfare toolkit

Collette says it has updated its Animal Welfare Policy and rolled out a new company-wide Animal Welfare Toolkit, timed to National Wildlife Day.

The Mississauga-based tour operator says the updated policy is meant to ensure animal-related experiences offered on tour meet standards for safety, respect and responsible tourism. 

The new toolkit is designed to guide teams across the company—including Tour Managers, Product, and Sales—on how to deliver animal experiences that protect animal well-being.

“Travel has the power to inspire deep respect for the natural world,” said Melissa Snape, head of corporate citizenship at Collette. 

“Our travellers trust us to curate experiences that celebrate wildlife without causing harm. These updates ensure we continue to deliver meaningful encounters that prioritize animals, support local communities, and reflect our values as a responsible tour operator.”

Collette also outlined activities it says are prohibited and may not be recommended, facilitated or promoted by team members. These include:

• Touching, feeding, petting, or handling wild animals, including forced photo opportunities and wild animal “walks”
• Elephant interactions such as washing, petting, feeding, or riding
• Businesses that keep wild animals as pets or use them for entertainment
• Rodeos or bullfighting events where animals are provoked or harmed
• Purchasing wildlife-based souvenirs, including ivory, coral, animal skins, bones, teeth, or feathers

Collette says it will continue working with global partners to ensure animal encounters meet or exceed international welfare standards.

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