"Swimming with Dolphin" programs and other types of dolphin encounters are springing up all over, not only at marine parks but even at individual resorts.
There's no denying that these experiences are thrilling for kids (and adults too.)
Yet there are ethical issues inherent in even the best-run facilities. Why? Even if the facility you're at scores high on all this points noted below, it's still contributing to a world-wide appetite for these experiences: and copycat facilities around the world may very well operate with less scruples or scrutiny.
Capture of Wild Dolphins: by the 21st century, it's generally acknowledged that hunting a wild dolphin and wrenching it from its complex social relations is reprehensible. Reputable marine parks and other dolphin facilities stress that their dolphins are born in captivity.
Yet there is always the copycat effect... For example, dolphin facilities in countries with less vigilance from welfare organizations, and/or less public awareness of animal welfare issues-- may be eager to acquire animals from any source.
Dophin Captivity is banned in Costa Rica. (Read more).
Read more about Dolphins in Captivity.
