'We Don't See Them Waving in the Wild': Animal Rights Group Takes Action Against the Dolfinarium
Introduction
The Dolfinarium, a marine park in the Netherlands, has once again come under fire from animal rights activists who claim that the park's dolphins are being subjected to cruel and unnatural conditions. The group, named 'Animals Today', has launched a new campaign to raise awareness about the plight of the dolphins and to pressure the park to close its doors.
Conditions at the Dolfinarium
The Dolfinarium is home to 13 bottlenose dolphins and eight California sea lions, and each of the animals performs in shows for the public. The dolphins at the park are confined to small tanks, and they are forced to perform tricks that are unnatural and stressful.
In August 2019, a report by the Dutch Animal Protection Service found that the tanks at the Dolfinarium were too small, and the water quality was poor.
Physical and Psychological Impacts
Animal rights activists argue that the conditions at the Dolfinarium are causing physical and psychological harm to the dolphins, and that the animals are not receiving the appropriate care.
- Dolphins are highly social animals and need to swim long distances in order to survive. The tanks at the Dolfinarium are too small for the animals to swim properly, and they are often forced to live in overcrowded conditions
- The dolphins at the Dolfinarium are forced to perform tricks that are unnatural and stressful.
- Some dolphins at the Dolfinarium have developed skin problems and other health issues as a result of the poor water quality.
Animals Today's Campaign
Animals Today is calling on the Dolfinarium to close its doors and release the dolphins into a sanctuary where they can live in a more natural environment.
The group has launched a petition that has already garnered over 100,000 signatures.
Actions Taken
Animals Today has also filed a complaint with the Dutch government, alleging that the Dolfinarium is violating the country's animal welfare laws.
The group has also staged protests outside the park and has raised awareness of the issue through social media and other channels.
The Dolfinarium's Response
The Dolfinarium has defended its practices, claiming that the dolphins are well-cared for and that the park provides a safe and stimulating environment for the animals.
- A spokesperson for the park said that the tanks at the Dolfinarium meet all legal requirements and standards
- The park said that the dolphins are not forced to perform tricks, and that they only participate in shows if they want to.
- The park also said that it has a team of experienced veterinarians that provide the dolphins with the best possible care.
Conclusion
The debate over the Dolfinarium is likely to continue. Animal rights activists argue that the park is cruel and unnecessary, while the park's management maintains that the dolphins are well-cared for and that the park provides a valuable educational experience for visitors.
Ultimately, it is up to the Dutch government to decide whether or not the Dolfinarium is violating animal welfare laws, but the public outcry against the park is growing louder.
Stay tuned for updates on this story.
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