Dolphin Etiquette

Dolphins have moods just like people do. Sometimes they are sociable, and sometimes they are not. And just as we demand our space and respect for our feelings, we should honor theirs. Many people are so enthusiastic to get close to a dolphin that they neglect that dolphins have their own lives—lives with daily cycles of rest, play, and feeding that are very important to their health and well-being.

Going out to swim with dolphins can be likened to visiting someone in their home. As a guest you are polite, use your manners, follow the rules of the household. You would not charge into your host’s bedroom and demand they play with you. You would not chase them all over the house and grab their bodies. You would not expect them to heal or enlighten you. And if you dropped by unannounced, you would leave if they were not in the mood for company.