Julie's Journal - November 2001

When does the understanding of kindness begin? Are people born with it, or is it developed over time? Are there different types of concern, depending on situation, maturity, or species? I remember as a very little girl, not understanding what it meant to treat other creatures with respect, even though that fervent emotion has continued to increase with age.

SeaWorld animal care staff work to rescue an injured manatee

A SeaWorld aviculturist nutures flamingo chicks

FROM THE BEGINNING

SeaWorld has been rescuing and treating marine animals since well before it was such a popular issue. I imagine that is because the people who worked here in the beginning were a compassionate group, who felt that each sick or injured animal deserved any assistance we could give. Back in 1964 when the first park opened in San Diego, not much was known about marine mammals, and despite the best efforts of the veterinary and animal care staffs, not too many of these rescued animals survived. Fortunately, that consideration towards other creatures has remained strong and our knowledge has increased dramatically. During the 1998 El Nino weather anomalies, over 450 animals were rescued just at SeaWorld San Diego alone. The survival rate now averages 62 to 63% going as high as 74 % in 1999! It is the compassionate response of dedicated individuals, as well as the financial support of our parent company that enables us to provide a second chance for these vulnerable “beached” animals.

SeaWorld aquarium staff engage in the rescue of an endangered leatherback sea turtle

SeaWorld staff prepare to X-ray a young manatee calf

So why do some people feel this empathy for all living creatures, and how can we nurture it? How can we take the concerned emotions one feels for an injured animal we find in our yard, and instill the same call to action for the environment, conservation and animals in another country? First hand experience seems often to be the key. We can hear a story, read about a situation, or even watch TV, but it’s never the same as experiencing something yourself. Maybe it’s these encounters we have when we are young, guided by adult role models, which create an awareness of compassion. It’s just a thought, but it’s one reason why SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove believe so strongly that education about animals and conservation is important for our youth; being near animals and experiencing their personalities, behavior and uniqueness is vital. Do the lessons learned hands-on at our parks Adventure Camps make a difference to those kids looking for direction? It may just be those memories which create our next generation of compassionate people, animal rescuers and caretakers.