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Miami Seaquarium Cited by USDA for Multiple Violations

The Miami Seaquarium, a popular tourist attraction known for its marine animal shows, is under fire for numerous animal care violations, according to a recent report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The report, released in July, revealed a range of issues, from ignoring veterinarian advice to failing to provide proper enclosures for animals. Perhaps the most alarming incident cited was when a guest was bitten by a dolphin during an interaction with the public.

Source: WPLG Local 10/YouTube

One of the most concerning violations mentioned in the five-page report was the facility’s disregard for the advice of veterinarians. It stated that Miami Seaquarium ignored recommendations from animal health professionals, which led to the poor well-being of its marine animals. The report also highlighted an incident this year where a dolphin bit a guest on the hand, raising questions about safety measures during public interactions.

The USDA inspection report further detailed instances where animals suffered due to inadequate care. It noted that the Miami Seaquarium housed a dolphin with others who allegedly broke several of her ribs. Moreover, the facility failed to provide proper protection from direct sunlight, which is essential for the well-being of marine animals. Additionally, the Miami Seaquarium allowed a dolphin trainer to undermine the authority of the attending veterinarian, causing further complications in animal care.

Notably, this inspection came shortly before the captive orca known as Lolita died at the venue. Plans were in progress to release the killer whale to her home waters, but her tragic death brought even more attention to the issues at the facility.

In response to the USDA report, Miami-Dade County leaders issued a notice of default on the Miami Seaquarium’s lease. The facility was given 45 days to make substantial improvements to animal conditions, citing violations of the terms of an amended and restated lease agreement. This requirement includes maintaining the property in good repair and ensuring that animals are cared for per federal laws.

The USDA’s latest inspection report also highlighted other violations, such as a lack of proper equipment for veterinary care and treatment and the failure to follow the attending veterinarian’s recommendations, including the need to relocate a dolphin that had ingested plastic and concrete in a run-down enclosure.

Animal rights nonprofit organization PETA has called for the immediate closure of the Miami Seaquarium following the release of the report. PETA Executive VP Tracy Reiman stated, “Having failed at every opportunity to clean up its act, the Miami Seaquarium is still subjecting animals to injuries from incompatible tankmates and denying them shelter from the scorching Miami sun, just as it did Lolita.”

The situation at the Miami Seaquarium reveals the ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of keeping marine animals in captivity for entertainment purposes. The USDA’s findings have raised concerns about the well-being of animals in such facilities, prompting calls for increased oversight and stricter regulations to ensure the humane treatment of these creatures. Miami-Dade County’s response to the violations at the Miami Seaquarium serves as a reminder of the importance of holding such establishments accountable for their treatment of animals and the need to prioritize animal welfare above all else.

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