By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The Mexican Senate has unanimously approved a nationwide ban on dolphin and marine mammal shows, amending the General Wildlife Law to prohibit “extractive exploitation” with exceptions for verified scientific research. This legislative victory follows a three-year effort fueled by public concern over animal welfare violations and the delayed implementation of a 2022 law. The new law, nicknamed the “Mincho Law,” was prioritized by President Claudia Sheinbaum and mandates humane lifetime care for existing captive mammals while imposing significant fines for noncompliance. The legislation comes after intensified enforcement actions against violators and will affect the approximately 350 captive dolphins in Mexico, a country that ranks among the top 10 dolphinarium operators worldwide.
Read the original article here
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. Well, that’s certainly a headline that sparks some thoughts, doesn’t it? My first reaction is to wonder what prompted this move. I mean, it’s a pretty significant shift in how a country approaches animal entertainment. I have to say, I can totally understand why this might be seen as a positive step. I mean, I’ve heard stories, seen documentaries, and even witnessed a dolphin show myself, and it wasn’t exactly a pleasant experience. In a so-called “nice” aquarium no less. The sadness of it all just hit me hard, you know? Seeing these incredibly intelligent creatures confined, performing tricks… it’s just not right.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. It makes you question the ethics of it all, doesn’t it? I recall the comment about how aquariums are often too small for these magnificent animals. Their natural habitat is vast, and I can only imagine the stress and confinement they experience. It’s easy to forget the difference between watching something through a glass and seeing it in its natural environment. It’s the same with other types of shows and exhibits. The focus is always on the spectacle and the revenue, and often, the welfare of the animals is secondary, or even completely disregarded. I mean, we’re talking about dolphins, known for their high intelligence and complex social structures.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. This kind of decision always leads to questions. I see it mentioned that it includes a mandate for humane lifetime care for the dolphins currently in captivity. That presents a serious challenge. How do you maintain that care when the shows that generate income are gone? I hope they’ve got a solid plan for those dolphins. It would be heartbreaking to see them suffer further due to the consequences of this well-intended law. There is a real danger, as someone mentioned, of the dolphins being abandoned or their care being neglected, as unfortunately happens sometimes in similar situations. It’s a critical consideration.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. On a more positive note, this ban could very well set a precedent. I wonder if it will inspire other countries to follow suit. Perhaps other nations might reconsider their own practices related to captive marine mammals. It’s about time we recognize that we can entertain ourselves in ways that don’t involve exploiting animals. We’ve got so many options, from virtual reality experiences to movies and music and other forms of entertainment that don’t harm or exploit any living being.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. It’s almost comical, the comments about donkey shows. But it illustrates the absurdity of the subject. It is funny how quickly the mind goes in unexpected directions. It goes to show how often the mind finds a way to introduce humor, even to rather serious issues. This is a welcome change, which could change what passes for ‘entertainment’ in the country and hopefully others.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. The intelligence of dolphins is a critical consideration. Anyone who has ever watched a dolphin up close, in person or in the media, can see the intelligence in their eyes. They’re not just performing tricks. They’re interacting, understanding, and learning. When we confine and force these creatures to perform, we’re essentially robbing them of their natural behaviors, social interactions, and their freedom. It’s a form of cruelty, plain and simple.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. The contrast between the dolphins and the gorillas someone mentioned is interesting. I can see that, even, if you get to see something up close. The comment, about the gorillas felt much more equal to the dolphins when watching them interact. It is a sobering realization of the true nature of things. Both are complex and intelligent creatures and are fully aware of everything in their vicinity.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. The thought that there aren’t any bigger spaces for these animals is really awful. The fact is that for many, the pool they perform in is all they get. As someone pointed out, it makes you feel sick. If you delve deeper into the realities of captive dolphins, it’s even worse. The truth is often far more disturbing than the sanitized version presented in these shows.
Ban on dolphin shows approved unanimously in the Mexican Senate. It is all a question of priorities, in the end. While this ban may have some bumps along the way, the spirit of the law is correct. The intention is to do what is right and that should be applauded. The question of what is ‘easy’ or ‘hard’ to ban doesn’t really enter into it. The reality is that laws such as these are complex and there will be unintended consequences. However, a first step has been taken.