How to handle pet dolphins
How to handle pet dolphins
Dolphins have charmed
and captivated us with their intelligence, beauty, and remarkable
interconnectedness. But dolphins are wild not domesticated animals and the
creature is not a pet. Breeding dolphins in captivity is a complex process
that is illegal in many countries. Some important facts about dolphins are why
they can never be pets, and how we should safely and respectfully interact with
them.
Facts about dolphins:
• Many facts on animal
intelligence: Dolphins are known for
their high intelligence and their use of tools.
• Social mammals: Dolphins live in large
pods and use a variety of sounds and body movements to communicate with one
another.
• Functionality of
animal behavior: Dolphins swim every day long distances and perform play,
hunt, etc.
• Sensitive creatures: Dolphins have keen
senses sight, hearing, and touch.
It appears similar, but
dolphins are not acceptable pets.
• Complex needs:
Dolphins need a lot of space to play, swim, and communicate with one another.
Skin is not a need that can be met really most of the time in a home
environment.
• Dolphin health: Dolphins can harbor
diseases that may be transmissible to humans.
• Dolphin welfare: Dolphins can develop
boredom and frustration due to their captivity, resulting in aggressive or
self-destructive behavior.
• Animal Protection
Laws: Many countries
prohibit the breeding of dolphins in captivity to keep both the dolphins
and the environment safe.
When interacting with
dolphins safely and responsibly:
• In the wild: Observe dolphins on
the water from a distance. Obey the guards or guides.
• In zoos or
rehabilitation centers: Listen closely to instructions from staff and treat the
dolphins’ environment with respect. Do not buy the dolphins' food at any time
to feed them or try to touch the dolphins.
With these tips in
mind, you should be able to safely and responsibly enjoy interacting with these
amazing animals.
To remember:
• Dolphins are not
pets.
• Respect its
environment.
• Be calm and kind.
• Do not feed dolphins.
• Watch the behavior of
dolphins.
Dolphin interactive
activities:
• Wild dolphin
interactions: Observation of
dolphins in their natural environment, there are dolphin-watching tours or boat
trips. Just make sure you select a responsible tour company that prioritizes
dolphins’ well-being.
• Swim with dolphins: In some countries Swim
with dolphins programs are available in zoos and rehabilitation centers. Do your
research, and select a program with a good reputation and one that keeps the
well-being of its dolphins as a priority.
• Become a volunteer at
a dolphin rehabilitation center: You can become a volunteer at a dolphin rehabilitation
center. This is a great experience to learn a little about dolphins and also to
keep them safe.
Here are some more
dolphin-specific dos and don’ts:
• Be steady and slow: no loud sounds or
quick adjustments. Talk calmly and lovingly with the dolphins.
• Do not touch the
dolphin unless invited: If the dolphin looks angry or upset, swim away from
it without making sudden darting movements that cause bubbles to form.
• Don’t disturb their
natural behavior: When you encounter dolphins, don’t feed, touch, or
chase them. It’s okay to act naturally in its environment
• Be respectful to
their environment: Do not litter on the beach or while in the water.
Protect the habitat where dolphins live
• Be respectful to
their environment: Do not litter on the beach or while in the water.
Protect the habitat where dolphins live
No matter what, having
these tips on your mind can keep you safe from the many risks involved with
interacting with dolphins, as well as ensuring that beautiful creatures are
safe as well!
Close of:
Sustainable Fisheries Part 4: The dolphin is a whale with many beautiful aspects. We will learn more about these great animals and we can assist in protecting them in their natural environment by responsibly engaging with them.