We all know that dolphins are smart and friendly. Seeing a dolphin in the wild must be something truly amazing! Certain locales will let you come and swim with the dolphins, but it turns out that may not be such a good idea after all. Especially if you are the dolphin.
![swimming with dolphins](http://www.relayhero.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/1-49.jpg.webp)
Image Credit: binder.donedat / Flickr
Since the dolphins are a major tourist attraction, you probably realize they are kept caged or penned up. They are prisoners to humans and are not treated very well at all.
![swimming with dolphins](https://www.relayhero.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/2-50.jpg.webp)
Image Credit: Brian Shamblen / Flickr
Any debris that floats near their enclosure puts them at risk for injury.
![swimming with dolphins](https://www.relayhero.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/3-44.jpg.webp)
Image Credit: Colleen Pence / Flickr
Dolphins that live in pens also experience psychological distress which can cause them to become anxious, dangerous, and frustrated.
![swimming with dolphins](https://www.relayhero.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/4-34.jpg.webp)
Image Credit: Cory Doctorow / Flickr
Wouldn’t you get upset if you were kept in a pen all day against your will? I know I would.
![swimming with dolphins](https://www.relayhero.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/5-31.jpg.webp)
Image Credit: Oliver Clarke / Flickr