(Photo: Irina No/Shutterstock.com)

SeaWorld To Ban Dolphin Surfing Shows

by Alix Coe | February 6, 2020

SeaWorld has announced it will put an end to the cruel practice of humans riding on dolphins for entertainment.

The decision was made to phase out dolphin riding shows — in which trainers balance on their faces and backs — after a campaign by animal welfare group PETA.

As part of the PETA campaign, a veterinary report was compiled that exposed the extent of the injuries the animals often sustain in the shows.

“Dolphins continue to suffer”

“Stopping trainers from treating dolphins like surfboards means less abuse,” said Tracy Reiman, Executive Vice President of PETA, “but orcas and other dolphins continue to suffer in tiny concrete tanks.”

Actor Alec Baldwin has voiced his support for ending the dolphin shows, directly asking when they will “stop allowing trainers to use dolphins as surfboards.”

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SeaWorld Shareholders

PETA is a SeaWorld shareholder, and was therefore able to propose putting an end to the shows.

SeaWorld responded to say that the request would be honored in the next few months at all three of its locations — in San Diego, San Antonio, and Orlando.

“The company seems intent on being dragged, kicking and screaming, into ultimately releasing these animals to seaside sanctuaries,” Reiman said.

“PETA is calling on it to put a plan in place now.”

Do you think SeaWorld is doing enough to protect the animals in its care? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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