Born Free USA and its companion organization based in England, the Born Free Foundation, are determined to end the exploitation of wild and exotic animals. Toward that end, the foundation has secured the release of two dolphins, Tom and Misha, from a small concrete swimming pool in the Turkish town of Hisaronu, where they were to be subjected to a tourist resort's "swim with the dolphins" attraction.
Water samples taken by experts revealed the pool had harmful bacteria counts 10 times higher than would be permissible under internationally accepted marine mammal standards. Backed by a dedicated team of wildlife professionals, the Born Free team flew to Turkey and helped put Tom and Misha in a temporary sea pen off the coast to undergo thorough medical assessment. The move was made possible thanks to the cooperation of the Turkish authorities and was facilitated through Born Free's project partners, Turkish marine research and conservation NGO, SAD, who have provided the sea and coastal facilities that eventually could enable Tom and Misha's rehabilitation back to the wild.
The Born Free Foundation's campaigns director, Alison Hood, reported from Turkey: "There can be no guarantees that this will succeed, but given the choice of either leaving them to perish in the pool or take their chances in the sea — their natural environment — the decision was made and for the first time in six years, Tom and Misha have a chance, ultimately, of freedom. However, it's going to be a long haul and we are going to need all the help we can get."
The Born Free Foundation and Born Free USA are seeking donations to pay for the rescue of the animals, all care costs, rehabilitation and their return to the wild. Please help us help the dolphins by choosing a donation amount.
