Outrage as trainer is filmed ‘crushing’ helpless dolphin at Dubai attraction

A trainer at a popular water park is being investigated for alleged animal abuse after video surfaced of her sitting on the back of a dolphin.

Dolphins cannot support their own body weight out of water, so adding the weight of a human as well risks serious harm.

A trainer at Dubai Dolphinarium is being investigated for alleged animal abuse after video of her sitting on the back of one of the animals went viral.

The footage shows the woman sitting on the back of a dolphin for around six seconds before it dives into a pool.

Marine experts blasted the stunt, saying it could easily have damaged the dolphin’s organs.

Dolphins cannot support their own body weight out of water, so adding the weight of a human risks serious harm.

A dolphin trainer in Dubai has been blasted for sitting on top of one of the animals

Campaigners identified two trainers who they said were responsible for the video, both of whom have since deleted their social media accounts.

A Dolphinarium spokesman said an investigation was underway but refused to discuss it further.

He said: “The management is investigating the video. We cannot talk about the video while the investigation is ongoing.”

Dr Elsayed Mohammad, regional director of the International Fund for Animal Welfare, told Gulf News: “It is well known that the body of dolphins is very sensitive.

“The dolphin’s body is not adaptable to any pressure outside water. Pressing the abdomen of the dolphin to the floor can easily harm its internal organs.

The Dubai Dolphinarium is a popular tourist attraction that offers daily dolphin and seal shows.

Campaigners identified two trainers who they said were responsible for the video, both of whom have since deleted their social media accounts.

“If you punch the abdomen of a person, you can imagine how painful it is.

“Regardless of whether it’s a few seconds or not, it’s wrong. It is animal cruelty.”

The Dubai Dolphinarium is a popular tourist attraction that offers daily dolphin and seal shows.

The 45-minute performances include the animals dancing, singing, juggling, playing ball and jumping through hoops.

Guests can also pay extra for a “swim with dolphins” experience that involves being hauled along while clinging to the animal’s belly fins or dorsal fin.

Customers are also told they will get to hug, kiss and dance with the animals.

Animal rights groups have been calling for an end to all captive animal shows, describing them as cruel and abusive.

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission