

Urge the USDA to Update the Minimum Tank Size Regulation for Captive Dolphins
The Issue
I beg you to consider the facts about the pitiful conditions in which captive dolphins are often held. The current regulation by the USDA mandates a minimum tank size of 24’x24’ and 6’ deep for dolphins. This can be likened to a medium-sized above-ground pool; a cruel and inhumane confinement for these majestic creatures that naturally cover vast distances in their wild habitats. Dolphins are highly migratory and intelligent beings, whose health tremendously suffers given the restricted space they're allotted, leading to numerous health issues over time.
It brings great concern to realize that these regulations, drafted in 1979, remain in place today, even though our understanding of dolphins, their intelligence and their sensitivity has drastically increased. It is an indignity to this protected species that the law remains unchanged despite the scientific progress.
Hence, we urge the USDA to review the severely outdated minimum tank size regulation for captive dolphins. We ask the authorities to work with marine biologists and animal welfare experts to establish better standards, taking into consideration the various health implications prolonged confinement can place on these beautiful, sentient creatures. We must prioritize their wellbeing; it's the very least they deserve.
This plea comes not only from a standpoint of decency and compassion for animal rights but from the depths of our heart that yearn for a world where every creature is treated with the respect and dignity it deserves. Make your voice heard; join the fight for better living conditions for captive dolphins. Sign this petition.
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The Issue
I beg you to consider the facts about the pitiful conditions in which captive dolphins are often held. The current regulation by the USDA mandates a minimum tank size of 24’x24’ and 6’ deep for dolphins. This can be likened to a medium-sized above-ground pool; a cruel and inhumane confinement for these majestic creatures that naturally cover vast distances in their wild habitats. Dolphins are highly migratory and intelligent beings, whose health tremendously suffers given the restricted space they're allotted, leading to numerous health issues over time.
It brings great concern to realize that these regulations, drafted in 1979, remain in place today, even though our understanding of dolphins, their intelligence and their sensitivity has drastically increased. It is an indignity to this protected species that the law remains unchanged despite the scientific progress.
Hence, we urge the USDA to review the severely outdated minimum tank size regulation for captive dolphins. We ask the authorities to work with marine biologists and animal welfare experts to establish better standards, taking into consideration the various health implications prolonged confinement can place on these beautiful, sentient creatures. We must prioritize their wellbeing; it's the very least they deserve.
This plea comes not only from a standpoint of decency and compassion for animal rights but from the depths of our heart that yearn for a world where every creature is treated with the respect and dignity it deserves. Make your voice heard; join the fight for better living conditions for captive dolphins. Sign this petition.
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Petition created on January 8, 2025