#World - Dolphins in captivity self-harm, attack each other, and grow depressed

 

We can end the suffering of dolphins in captivity, and still get that iconic photo opportunity — humanely Sign Now Dear friends, Dolphins are lauded for their intelligence and emotional capacity, often compared to dogs for their friendly nature and ability to learn. But dolphins have not undergone the centuries of domestication that dogs have — that means that when dolphins are in captivity, they are automatically suffering. Deprived of their natural habitat of miles and miles of ocean and complex social structures, imprisoned dolphins grow restless and depressed. They often turn to self-harm, aggression towards each other or their captors, and become listless and lethargic, leaving them vulnerable to disease and infection. But many of us don't want to envision a world where our only glimpse into the magic of these creatures is in a textbook photo or a film. Entrepreneurs in New Zealand and the United States have the perfect solution — a moving, swimming robotic replica of a dolphin, so lifelike that a test audience had no idea it wasn't the real thing. The inventors want aquariums to leave aquatic life in the wild where it should be, and instead use these robots as the centers of their entertainment, education, and conservation structures. Living, breathing animals deserve a chance at the wild life they were destined for, and we deserve a chance to look closely at them to learn why their survival is so important. Education is key, and these highly realistic robots are the perfect subjects. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums should change their accreditation standards so that no aquarium can hold standing with them unless they commit to phasing out marine mammal captivity and replacing the cruel practice with these educational robots. Sign the petition demanding that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums use their power to make this humane overhaul possible! Thank you,   Lauren W. The Care2 Petitions Team P.S. Dolphins don't belong in captivity. This robot would keep dolphins in the wild, while allowing us to get a closer look at them. Sign the petition.