Over spring break I took a trip to Seaworld in Orlando. I cannot stress enough how much it was the, BEST DAY EVER. Seaworld was really a magical place. The animals are so cool and it really is magical getting to watch them up close do their own thing and be themselves. I got to see animals I would have never gotten to see otherwise. These animals are given loving homes, a second chance at life, and the best of the best veterinary care. If you have seen the documentary Blackfish, you see one side of the Seaworld story, which is exaggerated to be a successful film. Seaworld does so much good for animals and their habitats, and here is how.
“In 2012, more than 20 pilot whales became stranded along Florida’s coast. As a result of that tragic event, only three whales survived. After they were deemed unreleasable by the federal government, SeaWorld Orlando was asked to give these animals a forever home. These whales were given a second chance at life and now inspire millions of visitors a year to protect our oceans.” These whales, named Ava, Ace, and Piper would most likely not be with us still today.
“For years, SeaWorld’s parks have been finding homes for adoptable pets by offering two complimentary tickets to people who adopt a cat or dog in need from a participating animal shelter. Since launching the Happy Tails program, SeaWorld has helped over 30,000 cats and dogs find forever homes.” All these pets might not have found homes otherwise. Seaworld adopts all their pets used for example in their show, Pets Ahoy which features dogs, cats, pot belly pigs, birds, and skunks.
“The first killer whale successfully born in human care was in 1985 at SeaWorld Orlando. This groundbreaking birth gave scientists data on killer whales they were not able to gain in the wild. Scientists learned about the gestation, nursing and growth rates from Baby Shamu and have been able to apply this information to wild whale populations. Over the years, Baby Shamus have inspired millions of people to love and protect marine animals.” They put on an excellent show with their killer whales, and talk before the show begins on the care they recieve and the relationships they form with their trainers to enjoy a happy, healthy life.
“Every year over $1,000,000 is donated to conservation projects around the world by the SWBG Conservation Fund. With projects all over the globe, the SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund gives everyone who visits SeaWorld’s parks an opportunity to make a global impact because 100% of all money donated to the fund goes directly to conservation projects.”
The men and women who have dedicated their lives to the care of animals are what makes SeaWorld so incredible. A visit to SeaWorld is more than just a fun day with your family, it’s an opportunity to make a global impact for conservation.
Information via: http://awesomeocean.com/top-stories/10-reasons-thankful-seaworld/