Most people would agree that if a wild animal were in the process of becoming endangered or extinct the most logical solution would be to capture that particular animal and rehabilitate the species. Of course a scenario such as this has its complications, for example, animals are not properly accommodated for to suit their basic and daily physical/mental needs. However the expectation with detaining a wild animal and holding it captive for rehabilitation should be minimal and that is where the flaw is found with zoos and SeaWorld’s across the country. Marine and land mammals at both facilities are stripped of their wild instincts, and their natural progression is stunted because of government and business execs setting the standards as to when the creature is to receive health treatment, cognitive care, or even primitive dietary requirements. Any living being, especially marine and land mammals shouldn’t be considered a financial burden when it comes to their well-being.
Facilities such as zoos and SeaWorld are accountable for holding many animals and marine mammals with the so-called “intentions” of strengthening, learning, and teaching about the species they hold and, in some cases, even advertise their plans of rehabilitating those creatures that may be facing a permanent disappearance. Sadly, in actuality they are creating mental breakdowns and depression among animals and unfortunately responsible for animals slow physical decay within their own enclosures. What needs to be realized is that animals and marine mammals are adept of experiencing the same emotions if not more then humans. They are highly intelligent beings that are unable to speak up for their well-being. As human beings it should be our duty to protect and help these creatures flourish. In recent years, research has proven that the captivity of all wild animals is inhumane and extremely harmful to the well being of the animal as a whole. At the Dallas, Texas Zoo “a gorilla named Jabari tried to escape by jumping over the walls and moats of his enclosure, only to be fatally shot by police”(PETA). It was later investigated and concluded through a witness that Jabari was placed under extreme distress after being tormented by teenagers who threw large rocks directly at him for an extended period of time. The only ethical permit to allow the existence of zoos should be one that makes the well being of a species present and future a priority. Zoos have lost their purpose and direction. Instead of zeroing in on the needs of their animals, the executives who sit behind a desk and control the money are more focused on the financial and entertainment aspect the zoo has to offer. Just recently the documentary, Blackfish, caused uproar among society by exposing to the inhumane and unjust treatment of sea life at SeaWorld. This single documentary has created one of the largest movements SeaWorld has ever faced; SeaWorld’s corporation is facing the possible loss of every park and any strings attached as a result. Although the potential release of these creatures is great and many marine animals will be rightfully saved, society also needs to open their eyes to zoos as well. SeaWorld and state zoos are shockingly similar with the exception of one holding marine life and the other land mammals. Dr. Jason Watters, Vice President of Wellness and Animal Behavior for the San Francisco Zoo will argue that “Yes, we [San Francisco Zoo] work really hard to make sure the animals live in an environmental enriched habitat. We think of toys, puzzles, cognitive challenges, and possible social interactions using science and psychological support”. Dr. Watter’s explanation may sound just and appealing but unfortunately many executives at zoos will conceal the truth of their facilities with what people want to hear for the sake of money. What Dr. Watters failed to acknowledge is a newfound psychosis found in wild animals that are held captive. The People for the Ethical Treatments of Animals claims “Captive animals are deprived of everything that is natural and important to them, and as a result, they become bored and lonely and many even suffer from a condition called “zoochosis.” If you’ve ever witnessed a captive animal rock and sway back and forth, you’ve seen the disease firsthand. This condition is so rampant in zoos that some zoos give animals a mood-altering drug, such as Prozac, because the public has started to catch on”(PETA).Compare and contrasting national zoos and SeaWorld Corporations is only the tip of the iceberg. Marine and land mammals at both facilities are stripped of their wild instincts, and their natural progression is stunted because of government and business execs setting the standards as to when the creature is to receive health treatment, cognitive care, or even primitive dietary requirements. Any living being, especially marine and land mammals shouldn’t be considered a financial burden when it comes to their well-being. These animals did not ask to be held captive. Anyone could point out the flaws of any system, but pointing out flaws and being passive with your actions proves more harmful then the heinous actions taken place. As Ghandi, a famous philosopher once said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”.