SeaWorld to end Dolphin ‘surfing’ and trainer stunts during it’s shows

Orlando, Fla. — SeaWorld Entertainment is making changes to the dolphin shows at all of its theme parks.

The company will end the practice of trainers riding on top of the animals during performances.

The animal activist group (PETA), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, which owns stock in SeaWorld Entertainment, claimed credit for the move in a statement.

But SeaWorld says its decision wasn't prompted by PETA.

"SeaWorld is continually evolving its animal presentations to create the best experience for both guests and our animals," the company said in a statement. "As an accredited zoological facility, our leadership solely determines the content and format of our presentations and is not influenced in any way by the actions of ill-informed activists, who are seemingly more interested in their profile and fundraising that they are the welfare of animals."

Changes to the dolphin shows come after SeaWorld revamped its orca shows, shifting its focus from entertainment to education.

SeaWorld has come under fire for entertainment involving marine life since the release of the 2013 documentary Blackfish, which detailed the company's treatment of orca whales in the park’s captivity.