Dottie, a beloved 39-year-old dolphin at SeaWorld San Diego, has died — a loss the park mourned in a heartfelt announcement.
Dottie was born at SeaWorld Orlando before spending most of her life at SeaWorld San Diego, where she became a favorite among both trainers and visitors. She raised four calves and was remembered in a statement from SeaWorld for her inquisitive nature and distinctive personality.
“Dottie shared an exceptionally close bond with her care team. These relationships supported the trust needed for voluntary diagnostic behaviors that helped maintain her health, particularly when diagnosed with kidney stones in 2010,” the statement said.
“After a groundbreaking procedure by the SeaWorld veterinary team, she went on to continue to thrive for another 15 years. Her tenacity and resilience remained evident well into her senior years,” it added.
The Facebook post announcing Dottie’s death had thousands of likes and hundreds of comments from fans remembering the SeaWorld San Diego dolphin.
“She will be deeply missed by the team who cared for her and by the countless guests who were able to connect with her over her remarkable life,” SeaWorld said.