Mr/Mrs Dee,

I'm sorry to say this, but maybe we just have to look around how much people in the world are worse than seaworld. I am thinking about people I would be most likely to give a nuclear pill if I was old enough to be a B-17 or B-52 bomber pilot. namely the Japanese.
And no, I am not talking about the latest Toyota incidents. I am talking about whalers.

Ok, I agree with you that SeaWorld keeps this animals for profit. And sometimes I also have the feeling that this animals don't have enough space for themselves. But if you have pets yourself, you should understand why SeaWorld uses this animals to make money. No mather what animal it is, they all need food and care.
And SeaWorld also uses the money to take care of wounded animals they picked from the seas, and bring them back as soon as they are healthy again.

Maybe your dog doesn't have to do something for his food, but you have to work all day long to be able to give it its food.
Maybe a killer whale is a bit different, and maybe they have to do something for their food, but their trainers certainly work hard to give them te food and care they need.

And even killer whales don't have to do something for their food always. When tourists don't see it, I'm sure that this animals just get their food in response of being carefull with their trainers.

Ok, what Tilikum did was not correct, and the truth is that I was shocked when I heard what happened that day, but Tilikum is still my favourite.
And to declare that, I think I have to say something that looks not unimportant, namely this. There are tourists who have filmed the last minutes/seconds before it happened. It was not clear what Dawn was doing, but it looked like Tilikum was acting like he did not really like it.
But it seemed that even Dawn did not notice that.

Ok, maybe that is not the real reason why Tilikum attacked her, but as everyone says that he grabbed her ponytail, maybe that was just what he wanted to do to show to Dawn that he was not happy with what she did.
This is allready the third time that Tilikum kills someone, and every time, the victim was already in the water when Tilikum got really aggressive. So for me it looks like he sees humans as intruders as they are in the water.

And I'm sorry to SeaWorld to allways use the name Tilikum, while he's nickname is Tilly, but I just like Tilikum more than Tilly. I don't know what it is, but according to me, Tilly sounds a bit too female, too silly. While Tilikum is nothing of that all.

I am sorry that I have to say this, but I am really shocked by your reaction, Mr. or Mrs. Dee.

I am so happy that Seaworld is keeping Tilikum! He is such a beautiful awesome creature. Thank you Seaworld for all that you do to help save and protect the beautiful Orcas, Dolphins, etc.....etc.

The company is asking for trouble. and a lawsuit. this is that whales THIRD incident already.

In response to the latest incident with Tilikim, I am shocked that SeaWorld would have the audacity to say that the company takes "stewardship of these animals seriously". SeaWorld, like any other corporation that profits from wild animal captivity, forced training and performances, is out for one thing and that is how much money can be made from these animals. There are numerous documents and records stating just how terrible these animals are treated and how sick they become in captivity. The stress alone is enough to kill them if you weren't putting medication down their throat daily.

This is animal slavery and should be abolished just as human slavery was. I will continue to support the anti-captivity activism groups and animal rights groups until humans understand the huge impact this has on our eco-system and how cruel it is to keep mammals and other animals in captivity. Why can't SeaWorld educate about animals without harming them and kidnapping/animalnappying them from their family (pods)? The answer: There is just too much money to be made for the CEO of these corporations. Again, another example of human selfishness, human ignorance and complete lack of disregard for animal life. I don't know how these people sleep at night except for the fact that they have multi-million dollar homes with very comfortable beds!

It's sick and vicious. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

RE: sending a whale out in the wild.

Hi Crystal,

We’re adamantly opposed to releasing our whales because to do so is would expose the animals to tremendous risks and is nothing more than a deeply flawed experiment.  It would almost certainly end poorly for the animal.

Marine mammal experts have studied the issue of releasing marine mammals – like Tilikum -- and virtually all have concluded that returning these animals to the wild would be ill-advised and dangerous.  Most recently, these include an advisory group in Spain, a government committee in Canada, the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission, the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Navy. 

At SeaWorld, we take our stewardship of these animals very seriously.  This year alone, more than 13 million people will be touched by up-close experiences with the killer whales and other marine animals at SeaWorld parks.  In large part because of places like SeaWorld, the public understands the need to save and protect all animals, including killer whales.  It is and always has been our philosophy that firsthand experience with marine wildlife is the finest way possible to create a lasting appreciation and respect. 

It feels so good to hear that Tilikum will return to the shows
I live in Belgium, but the news of the incident reached even me. I was so scared that I didn't even know how to react on the insults my parents made on Tilikum.

And now they complain that I don't talk to them. But that's just my style; keeping it quiet in order to not show that I am angry.
For me, Tilikum meant something, and he still does. I have never seen him in real live, but after searching information about several killer whales in captivety, I selectet him as my favourite.
In my deepest dreams, he's allways at my side. But a dream mostly stays a dream.

And I hope trainers would be alowed to do water work again soon. Because a show without the relationship between human and animal isn't really a show

My heart also goes to Dawn and her family, but also to her collegues and the visitors who had to see what happened that critical moment.

You are doing a wounderful job seaworld. Keep up the good work. You are doing a wounderful beautiful thing with the whales and trainers.You keep kids dreams alive, just like you have kept mine alive since I was three years old. Never stop what you do with the interactions with the Orcas and trainers it si the most beautiful thing in the world. Don't let it get to you when people dont understand the whales. It takes a special person to understand the bond trainers have with them.I can't with to be there to help share the beautiful bond that trainer and whale have. I love and cant wait to be a trainer for you!!!!
It is a hudge loss for the trainers, family,and seaworld.I bet it is a great loss for the whales too. They loved Dawn like one in their own pod she was a family member to them. I can't wait till the shows go as normal BUT never forget Dawn she was an amazing trainer I respected her and loved her work she brought suck joy and happienes and showed such emotion when she was in the shows. Just hope one day I will beable to fill just even half of her shoes. I think in everyones heart they know Tilly did not mean to but no one wants to relize it he loved her and you could see it in his body movement and his eyes that I have saw before when they performed together.He was never taught that humans are fragial, its not his fauld and I wish people would understand that.Its no ones fault just a freak acident.

I feel that Tilly should havr the right to be returned to the wild and you should try and find his original family again or him. and never take animals from the wild again.

Why are you guys sending a killer whale out in the wild? That whale is going to die for sure! That's not cool! A whale does not know better about killing people. Ugh... the whale is already used to the feeding schedule it won't be able to fend for itself! My goodness think before making over exaggerated actions! And if this is not posted it's because you know I am right!

I have felt so aweful since what happened with Tilikum last month. My heart goes out to Dawn and her family. I know that Dawn is looking down on Tilly today and making sure the world will understand that what happened was an unfortunate accident. This animal was like her child as we have read so many times. Dawns family knows she would not want anything to happen to Tilly, and she would want him to continue on with his life and to bring happiness and hope into the heart of so many people young and old. I live near Cape Cod and was visiting there this week when 16 Dolphins beached themselves and had to be rescued. The care I saw from all those volunteers and the don't give up attitude reminds me of how much these animals mean to all of us. And also how much these animals need human care and rely on us many times in thier lives. I hope we can all start a new with Tilikum and welcome him back to the shows and dine with him at the Dine With Shamu show. I know that is what Dawn would want. And I'm sure that it would make a certain whale very happy again. God bless you Dawn and Tilikum.

Thanks SeaWorld, I willl come back to your park this year and it would be great to see tilikum perform again!

Thanks SeaWorld, I willl come back to your park this year and it would be great to see tilikum perform again!

Returning Tilikum back to performing is MADNESS - and, I will add, will be even more of a public relationships nightmare for you than it already is.

It's obvious that you care little for this animal - or for the safety of your employees. Like every other money-making company, all you care about it the bottom line. As David Letterman made ratings & revenue for CBS skyrocket with his many scandals, the same principle will apply to Tilikum, and the executive board of Sea World is cashing in on this tragic incident.

Shame on you. For God's sake, reach down and retrieve what little humanity you have left and do the right thing. Everyone has posted about how Dawn would not have wanted Tilikum taken out of the shows - and perhaps this was true before the incident, but what was she thinking about the whale program in the final moments of her life? That poor girl. It's time to phase out your whale program. If it's not possible to set them free due to their decreased immunity as a result of being forcibly kept in captivity, then give them a larger, liveable habitat to live out the rest of their days in relative peace.

Your employees are obviously at risk. I work in aviation - a highly safety-conscious industry - and if a safety hazard is found, we deal with it immediately. To put your employees in harm's way - and this whale has a record of harming - is unthinkable.

Do the right thing before the public decides to boycott you and you will have to shut everything down - you won't make any money at all if you're forced to close. How long will you choose to ignore public outcry, Sea World? This is disgraceful.

I am not a PETA member, nor am I an extremist, however, to say this "isn't Tilikum's fault" is to be foolish - for whatever reason, this majestic creature took the life of a beloved trainer. We may never know if it was deliberate or accidental, and we may never know the reasons.

I think it's interesting that all of the comments on this page are for keeping Tilikum in the show. I would be willing to bet that Sea World is carefully scrutinizing the comments so that only the Pro-Whale-Show comments come up. As wonderful as it is to bond with another species, Tilikum is a KILLER whale and was acting according to his nature.

It is selfish and inhumane to keep these beautiful creatures in captivity for the purpose of:
(1) Making money (because, let's face it, every company is about the money, even if they save manatees), and
(2) Entertaining people.

How would you react if a technologically superior species took you from your home, put you in a confined space and forced you to do tricks? I believe that whales are highly intelligent, feeling beings who feel stress when put in a confined space, especially when they are normally supposed to live in a limitless expanse of water.

If the animal is injured and is unable to be returned to the wild, that's one thing, but to capture it from its natural habitat and train it to splash giddy spectators in a confined space - that's just asking for trouble.

I don't think Tilikum should be put to death, however I think it's unethical to return him to the shows. He has been either directly or indirectly responsible for 3 deaths, so there is obviously some issue with him. Rather than whine about how losing him would mean we won't be entertained, why not think about what's best for the whale?

Set him free.

I strongly believe the trainers at sea world are very compassionate about the animals, and show them care and kindness.The thing is, their liviing conditions at all times are so far from natural it is very hard for them to adjust even with care and compassion from trainers (its like keepeing a large dog in a 12' x15' empty room his whole life. He could live, and it is much better than a crate, but its simply not enough). I am sure if they had a large environment with a more natural surroundin for part of the time they would feel less stressed and would be more willing to do shows. People all around the world would be willing to raise the money for a larger, more sufficiant habitat for the whales, and other creatures at sea world. It could cost hundreds of millions of dollars or more, but it is doable, and the public loves sea world and their animals, but some have turned against them because of this incedent. I think that a compromise in the middle can be found by building larger habitats closer to the ones that the whales have in the wild, but still continuing the shows and human interaction with the animals.

I went to seaworld in 2007 and I was very happy with the treatment of the animals, and the one on one attention that they got, but I do think that they need more natural habitats to live in. I think that the many rescues SeaWorld is involved in are amazing and I commend them on this!

My First visit to Sea World was back in 1983 and have been fortunate to go back many times
as a child and now regularly with my own children who love this place as much as I do.
Dawn would never have blamed Tilikum with what happened nor should any one else.
Our hearts go to her family and the all at Sea World at this sad time. Dawn's spirit will always
be with all the Killer whales at Sea World and if Tilikum does not return and perform and as with the trainers back in the water with the other Killer Whales Dawn's legacy and spirit that she had will be lost forever.

I am so happy to hear that the plan is to bring Tilikum back to the shows. Dawn would have wanted that. He compassion and love for the whales was so evident in everything that she did. I am a huge fan of Sea World and have been very impressed with all of the research and ground breaking training that they have been able to accomplish with their animals. I agree with the earlier comments I am sure that the whales are confused as to why their trainers are keeping such a distance from them right now. I understand Sea Worlds decision in doing this and hope that they will be able to wrap up their procedure review soon. Dawn would not have wanted the relationships with the whales distanced like this. Keep up the awesome job Sea World and staff.

I first visited Sea World in 1991 and as a experienced scuba diver felt strongly that all marine life should remain in a free environment. Since that time I have visited Sea World many times. I took my time talking to those who work closely with all the animals and reached a new understanding about the incredibly valuable work they do. Much of which is often unseen and outside public scrutiny. The staff work over and above any other work schedule to rescue a sick manatee and sit with others in distress. My mind has been changed by the genuine love both the trainers and educators have for all they care for and I thank them all for the wonderful work Sea World does for both rescue and education Last year I spent six weeks at Seaworld as a visitor and everyday my understanding was enriched by the passion of the staff I was talking to. On one occasion the animal educator and I were able to compare a human pregancy and birth with a Dolphin one.(Being a trained Midwife). People who pass judgement should take the time to learn before making judgement. I am in my 60th year and send my thoughts to Dawns family. At the same time remember the Sea World Family that took time for me and proves - 'You are never too old to learn'. Love to all. Carol

My family and i are coming to sea world next week- very disapointed that the dining with shamu has been canceled- my grandchildren where looking forward to it- I sure hope it has not been canceled for good- someone from sea world called me to tell me the show was not going on because we had paid for the dining show already- I thought it was very nice that they gave us a call and offered us tickets to another show - we accepted but still really going to miss seeing tillikum I've seen him before but my grandchildren coming there did not.
thanks again for the very nice call and offer- can't wait to see the shamu show thanks again

Please don't allow organizations such as those clowns flying around in an airplane dictate your decision on what will happen to the Shamu show. Those whales love those trainers and vice versa and are probably wondering why the trainers aren't in the water playing with them. After talking to many friends and family we all stand behind your SeaWorld Parks because we know what you are really about and what you really do for these animals. We love SeaWorld (more so then the regular theme parks) and plan on coming back again soon. If you need our help as a community to get involved and stop this nonsense please let the public know. We will be at your side 100%.

My heart goes out to all who knew Dawn, especially to her husband, family and the people and the whales she worked with everyday! I agree, the show WAS heartbreaking! The whales don't understand why their best friends are not touching and loving them anymore! I think we all need to move on, Dawn would of wanted this beautiful show to continue, please don't punish the whales or the trainers any longer! i know certain protocols must be implemented to take care of Tilly safely, but please allow them to return to the water with these magnificient animals!

I am glad to hear that SeaWorld isn't going to destroy Tillikum but my question is that since he has been responsible for three human deaths, what would happen if there is a fourth? I do feel that orcas, as well as all other animals at SeaWorld belong in the wild but they seem to be well cared for there and I am, by no means, slamming SeaWorld for having performing marine animals. It appears that SeaWorld is taking steps to ensure that no other humans are harmed during the shows but what if another freak accidental death of a human does happen again? I hope the staff of SeaWorld is prepared if another incident does occur again.

I believe in the greatness of the whales. I feel that the whales must be wondering what has happened since they are not having that daily contact with their friends (trainers). I continue to pray that the decision will be made to allow the trainers back into the water with the whales.

great news to see the big guy back in action,strange as it sounds no afternoon at seaworld is the same without a real soaking from tilly.A few of my twitter friends have been recently,with the kids taking tillys job,they say as cute as the kids are they need more training from tilly on how to soak us.
seriously i agree with previous comments i'm sure it is what dawn would have wanted ,thats for tilly to continue to take part and spread the belief around the world,I also believe that the big guy didnt mean to do what he did,maybe tilly might be missing dawn,he and dawn bonded well together.
please keep @Shamu on twitter,we are missing this big whale on there,he knew how to cheer us up

I have loved reading all the above comments. It really is a truly magical place where adults and children forget about the stresses of life and connect with another world, that is seaworld. My 3 children love seaworld and there hasnt been a day that has gone past since our last visit that they havent talked about it, my youngest has slept with his shamu teddy every night since we got back. The trainers at seaworld do a fantastic job and it seems clear that they love the whales and the whales love them. Tili is a great whale and im sure Dawn would have wanted him to carry on as part of the seaworld family. Thoughts to Dawns family and everyone at seaworld....see you in June, cant wait!

Well done!
Tilikum needs to be again in the shows. He needs interaction with the other orcas, trainers and people. He is used to it and that´s his life.

Isolation and/or indiference would only made things worse for him, as animals feel and perceive their environment and people´s emotions.
Please, don´t isolate Tilikum.. (we know you won´t) ...he is such an awesome breathtaking killer whale!

Dawn and Tilikum had a special bond of love and will always have.

You are the chance for do many people to get to know this beautiful killer whales at such a short distance. Not everybody can make trips to the wild ocean and view them there.

Kids and grown-ups, we all fall in love with killer whales, dolphins and other animals, and appreciate the opportunity to see them and interact with them.

Lots of love and strenght during these moments for Dawn´s family, friends and close co-workers.

Very happy to hear this news about this amazing animal! My 2 year-old nephew also watches the "Believe" show on video and can do the "Shamu" chant. Can't wait to take him to Sea World for the first time to see this stunning show in person! He even recognizes the trainers by name and we all hope that Brian is in the show that day so he can meet him!
We continue to feel devastated for Dawn and her family. Our thoughts and prayers remain with them as well as her Sea World Family.

I am glad Tilkium is back in the shows. I went to seaworld a few times and enjoyed watching the trainers interacting with the whales. They are all very well trained. My sympathy is with Dawn and her family. I am sure Dawn wouldn't want anything to happen to Tilkium. Dawn and the other trainers know that no matter how well an animal is trained it can still turn on a person. I hope the investigation will find the cause of Tilkium's aggressive behavior to prevent future tragic accidents.

SeaWorld's dedication to all of its animals is to be commended. I have no doubt in my mind that Tilly is being well cared for despite this tragedy. Humans can truly never really know what goes on in the mind of animals, and we may never know what caused this to happen. Dawn was not only a friend to people, she was a friend to all of her whales too, and I am sure they are feeling her loss to some extent as well. Some people have been so quick to judge Tilly because of this incident, and they can say to euthanize him or to set him free, but they are not in a position to know the complications of setting him free. Only the trainers who work with these animals on a daily basis and the veterinarians who work at SeaWorld can say what is best for these Orcas. They have the knowledge and the connection to these animals that no one else has, and they always have the best interests of these animals at heart. Tilly is a beautiful animal, and it is clear to me that Dawn loved him unconditionally. We need to follow her example and do the same.

My sympathy is with Dawn and her family as well as Seaworld Colleagues. I am glad Tilkium is back in the shows. I have been to Seaworld a few times and enjoyed watching the trainers interact with the whales who are very well trained. The press just wants to make matters worse than they are with the incidents that happen to people. Dawn and the other trainers know that no matter how well an animal is trained they can still turn on a person even the person who trains them and takes care of them. I hope the problem will be solved by finding out what caused Tilkium to turn on Dawn this way it will not happen in the future.

Great job today with the manatee rescue! Also, loved the response to the PETA protest. It's so true, if they would only put the money they spent on a plane and banner to better use more animals would be saved.

What does that beautiful killer whale need?.
What is in his heart?
What is his call in nature?
Does any human really believe that they know?
Is all this performance purely for human entertainment and so called education?
Or did Tilly and all the other whales put their hands up for the job.?
Everyone open your hearts - you do know.............................................

i can only go back to the beginning of this tragic event, accidents do and will happen, blame cannot be apportioned where all aspects of safety are adhered to, in respect of wild animals. They always have to be respected, we do not know what is going through their minds, and no matter how well we think we know them, something can trigger them to do something out of the ordinary.

Thank goodness sanity is still there and Tili is being allowed to continue. Long may this carry on.

Seaworld has always strived to provide education and knowledge about all their animals, regardless of the obvious commercial aspect of the chain, without which they probably would not achieve half of what they manage.

The good that is done, far outweighs any negatives. We as a family will continue with our support via annual tickets and regular visits from England, and look forward to our next visit.

I have always loved seeing Tillikum in the shows as he is an awesome whale to observe. I would love for him to continue to amaze people with his strength and beauty. I love that whale! I love all of them but, being the largest in captivity,Tilikum will always be the most awesome to see.

I really can't wait to see the trainers interacting with the whales like they used to. The trainers are part of all the whales family & vice- versa & I believe that the whales are more confused than ever not understanding why members of their family don't interact with them like they've been used to virtually from birth. So the sooner this can be sorted out the better for the whales & trainers. Even if they don't do a full length show any close interaction between Animals & trainers, the animals will need to be reassured that they are not being punished for something they haven't done & got no understanding off.
I also know that some trainers might be apprehensive about interaction, but they all knew that they where going to be working with the georgeous, but larger than life animals.
I can't wait to see all the whales & trainers back together like the family they are all used too.

We'll still miss Dawn, but I'm sure that Dawn wants only what's the best for all the animals & of course the rest of the seaworld families all over.
Can't wait to get soaked by Tilly again really soon.

P. S.: Does anybody know yet if the Tops (which are shown among the Sea World pictures) designed in memory of Dawn are officially accepted by Dawns Family & Seaworld Family?

Great news that hopefully Tili will soon be back in action im sure thats what Dawn would of wanted as she will know that he didnt mean it. Ive been to florida many time on holiday (16 times) since a very young age im 27 now and Tili has alwasy been my fave the big guy that you just got to love(Katina folows in at a close 2nd, i also have my border collie (also blk n white) named after Tili and cat is Katina).
Everytime we sit in shamu stad my mum looks at me and i always say 'whats up with u' she reply with 'this is the only place i ever realy seem 2 see you truly happy when were in here' that is said with tears in her eye and you know what shes right i love that place like its my home and just wish i could of been born in the US and became a trainer there.I hope you get back to water work with the other soon as it must be confusing for them not knowing why there best friends are jumping in for a play or going over to give them a tounge rub.
We always got 2 dine with shamu and last time we were over 08 Tili came up right infrount of me and for those few seconds that he was in touching distance from me and we had eye contact it was like there was only me and him there was the best feeling ever and i didnt see any malice or evil in his eye only love.
Mayb you cant see that in orcas eye im not sure but having had horses since the age of 4 i have learnt to read eyes and can tell when a horse has malice etc in them.
Peta realy need to get a life and stop wasting money that could go 2wards doing what is needed helping animals in need.
Seaworld keep up a great job, Tili keep bing the big great guy that you are and ill soon be back hopefully in October if not b4 to see you.
My love and thoughts are with the family of Dawn all the traners and her friends in seaworld.

I am so happy to read that despite all of the bogus untrue claims about orcas and tilly that Sea World actually has maintained thier strong focus on the best interest of the animals. My deepest sympathies to Dawn and her family (Sea World family included) during this difficult time.

I took my daughter last summer when she was barely one and she loved it and to this day still sleeps with her Shamu every night. I really hope that once this bad press dies down and people begin to heal that the normal shows and interaction with the whales can begin to allow for the special bonds ro continue to grow and educate children such as my daughter about the beauty of these wonderful animals!!

Good job and blessings to each of you on the wonderful example you set each and every day on the love and selflessness for these animals!!

I really feel for Dawn's family, but I am sure that while it was a tragic accident, many of us would be thankful to die doing what we love. That being said, I think Tilikum should be allowed to return to the shows. I went to SeaWorld San Antonio on opening day as a passport member as I have for the past several years of living here. I watched the show with tears in my eyes remembering Dawn, but also wondering what must these beautiful whales be thinking. All of the interaction with their trainers and then suddenly their worlds are turned upside down also by being handled less and their performance routine abruptly altered. These are intelligent creatures and it's obvious there is deep love and affection between the trainers and whales. While it might seem asinine, I could feel that the whales knew something was wrong in their world, but could not quite figure out the wrong. It was as they seemed to be cautious in their performance.
Should precautions when interacting with the animals be re-evaluated. Absolutely. However, and there is no blame being put in either direction here, it was noted that Dawn broke with procedures and was in an area she should not have been with Tilikum in the water. A true testiment of her love, respect and trust of Tilikum, but regretfully, a personal choice and mistake on her part. These are wild animals and as such can only be afforded trust in a safe and forever cautious manner when they are interacting with our human world.
SeaWorld provides so much advancement to the care of animals that it would be a mistake to end that. That does not mean I agree with them being made into performers, no matter how wonderful it is to observe their ability to provide us with entertainment.
Until man can respect all animals and their need for their natural environments to be a safe haven for them free from human destruction and encroachment then SeaWorld- and places like it- will remain a valuable resource for educating humans on the animal kingdoms we co-exist with.

Please share this with all your trainers!!!!

We live in IL but have been coming to Sea World Orlando yearly for the past 4 years. My 5 year old can sing the songs from "Believe" and can speak word for word the "Why do I Believe" Testimony from Trainer Laura on the Believe video. She looks forward every year to sitting in the stands and doing the Shamu cheer with the trainers who she admires so much.

Last year one of your trainers, Brian, stopped during a show and talked to my daughter about the shamu necklace she had on. She was on cloud nine, to watch (and even remember ) the look on her face brought/brings tears to my eyes. To this day talks about that non-stop and is constantly asking us if she can sit on edge again so she can talk to Brian and get a high five from a trainer.

I wish people would stop using this horrible tragedy as a way to get PR. It makes me sick and makes me think that radical organizations like PETA are only interested in creating controversy and have no intrest in what they claim to stand for.

My family can't wait for our trip this summer. My 2 year old has been practicing the Shamu cheer with his sister!!! The things you do there are incredible!!!!!

i truly hope he does, but only for selfish reasons. People can get so fanatical, that sometimes I worry about his safety. I know you guys will make the best decision. We are Passport members, and will be coming back down at the end of April - of course, we will be at the show and at the dining experience as we always do. If you guys decide to take him out of the show, although I will understand, he will be missed. No one kicks a tail like Tilly;-D.

By the way, thank you for these updates - I really appreciate it. It's so much better than having to sift through all the nonsense that's out there. Thanks again.

good to see he will still be getting fun exercise and play. take care tilly! i know all the trainers understand that these animals, trained or not, require a certain temperament and etiquette. please be careful guys, even with dawn watching over you! we love these amazing shows and the trainers that put their heart and souls into sharing this passion with us! =)

As passport members, Ive been a little hesitant to return to SeaWorld so quickly, may be out of respect for Dawn and her family, friends, and coworkers. My 4yr old and 2 yr old daughters and I usually are at SeaWorld at least once a month, if not more. They both know and frequently sing "Shamu, Shamu, boom boom" and know the hand motions also. But, I have to say, that after reading your "Commitment to Animal" link, which then goes into describing the waste of money PETA is responsible for right now with their flyovers of the park, is a real eye opener. The statement that describes SeaWorld rescuing animals while they fly their plane and waste money is shockingly accurate. It is so unfortunate and upsetting to have lost a wonderful trainer, yet your commitment to the animals is exaclty what makes trainers do what they do and love. While I will quietly pray that my daughter changes her mind about her dream to be a "Shamu Girl", (and no, I will never tell her that she shouldnt follow that dream), we will be back as a family to support SeaWorld and its trainers again, without guilt or reservations.

Fantastic news, none of it was Tilikum's fault. I hope all the whales can soon resume normal contact with their loving trainers.

Yay Im glad you will keep on with that. I love that guy so much. He's an incredible animal despite the accident,and what others say.- I know you guys will do what's best for him. Thank you for the update. I hope to see him performing with shows (maybe DWS) In May.

I'm glad SeaWorld is putting the welfare of their animals first, as always, despite the terrible media outcry. I hope he does reenter the shows soon and that close trainer contact with the other orcas is reestablished, they must be very confused right now and it must be heartbreaking for the trainers too.

My condolences to everyone involved.

It's good to see Tilikum will be returning to shows after what was a tragic accident.

I must say I recently went to seaworld this weekend and saw the shamu show and I was heartbroken.. The trainers remained at such a great distance from the whales they were probably wondering why their great bonded trainers wouldn't get Ito the water with them anymore.. I hope that they continue the original show and only restrict tilly rather than punishing all of the whales

Thanks SeaWorld, it would be great to see Tillikum perform again!