Captive dolphin and whale shows have faced growing welfare and ethical scrutiny - reform is moving toward conservation-focused care with reduced performance requirements.
Cetacean captivity remains one of the most ethically contested areas of zoo animal keeping. Scientific evidence indicates that dolphins and orcas have complex social, cognitive, and navigational needs that are fundamentally incompatible with pool confinement. Reform is moving in a clear direction: the entertainment show model is being replaced by education-focused care, and accreditation bodies are raising welfare standards. Supporting sanctuaries and reform-minded facilities while reducing demand for captive cetacean experiences is the most impactful consumer action.