Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder

From its humble beginnings to its official establishment in 2018, Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder has been deeply committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals in the Florida Keys. Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is on a mission to protect whales and dolphins, as well as the habitats upon which everyone depends. They achieve this mission through their four pillars: Animal Welfare, Education and Outreach, Scientific Investigation, and Rescue Response.

By pioneering the first swim-with-dolphin programs in the world in the 1980s, Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder ultimately opened its doors to the public in 2018. The center’s resident dolphins live in a natural seawater lagoon, where they receive a well-rounded diet, veterinary care, enrichment, and mental stimulation from dedicated professionals each day. The DPMMR experience is truly one for the books. Their mission is to create meaningful connections between their finned family and visitors of all ages and abilities. Experience swimming with dolphins, interacting dockside, or taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the facilities at Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder.

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder faced a significant operational challenge with its existing dock system. The limited space severely hindered trainers’ mobility and ability to engage with the dolphins in a dynamic and enriching manner. Recognizing the urgent need for a transformative change, Dolphins Plus embarked on a mission to implement a dock system that would transform the dolphin-trainer experience. By creating a more spacious, flexible, and engaging environment, the goal was to foster deeper connections between dolphins and their trainers, while also enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The system features two custom floating docks and two aluminum gangways, all constructed with durable, environmentally friendly PVC decking. Equipped with swim ladders and tie-down cleats, the docks offer secure and easy access to the lagoon.

This innovative design has significantly enhanced training sessions by providing increased flexibility and space. Trainers now have greater freedom to be creative and unpredictable in their interactions with the dolphins, fostering a more enriching environment. The docks also create private areas for the dolphins, allowing them to retreat when needed.

The positive impact extends beyond the dolphins. Staff find their daily tasks more efficient, and visitors enjoy enhanced experiences. The sleek, aesthetically pleasing design complements the lagoon’s surroundings.

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is committed to fostering a connection between people and marine mammal conservation. To optimize their interactions, they’ve installed a top-of-the-line floating dock system from AccuDock. This cutting-edge technology enables consistent close encounters with animals, overcoming the challenges of fluctuating tides.

Over the first few weeks, the dolphins seamlessly transitioned to their new platforms. The team at DPMMR couldn’t be happier with the new AccuDock system, and they’re even more delighted with the dolphins’ positive response. Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder remains committed to its core mission of dedicating time to marine mammal welfare and creating impactful interactions with those who visit the center.